I need to take my car in to the shop.
Then, I want Mexican food.
And then, I need to go fix my father's computer-related failings.
Beyond all that, there's work.
But I'm on Flickr now!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/tekobaka/
In other news:
I can't seem to figure out how to graduate. The CSUF website is entirely uninformative as to telling me when I receive my diploma.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Monday, December 20, 2010
Taiwan, Winter 2010
Just because it's winter doesn't mean there's no mosquitoes.
And I should have brought more SD cards.
And my glasses.
Silly me.
And it's interesting what a stabilizing effect a woman has on me.
But have a picture!
And I should have brought more SD cards.
And my glasses.
Silly me.
And it's interesting what a stabilizing effect a woman has on me.
But have a picture!
That's the Taipei 101 in the background, I think.
Will try to take lots of pictures to share, but others can be found of Facebook.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Nikki's Photos 001
As I promised(to myself), here are some of the pictures I've been taking these last few weeks with my new D90.
Some wildflowers
Playing with filters in Lightroom
Pomona Courthouse
First animal I managed to get a picture of, even if it is a silhouette with a telephoto
Rolling hills near my home, the black specks are cows.
I'll be heading back to Taiwan tomorrow for ten days, so expect more pictures then!
Monday, December 13, 2010
End of an Era
Today, I will be taking my first, last, and only final examinations of the semester. Hopefully(or maybe not hopefully) this will be the last time I need take a final. I find myself no longer fit for school. I've found that studying has become an extreme hardship due to the fact that I have not truly studied in many years, and seem to have forgotten how to do so.
This week will be quite the turning point for me. I cannot say too much about certain things, but simply make note that tenacity wins again.
Also, I will be heading to Taiwan again on Thursday, and will be back just after Christmas. It won't be the first Christmas I've spent on a plane.
On a side note completely unrelated to all above topics('cept maybe finals):
Starcraft custom games are fun. Especially "Star Battle." However, they rapidly degraded my already poor skill at vanilla Starcraft.
I have been taking pictures with my D90(Nikki, not the most inspired of names, I know). I'll do a post of photos later.
This week will be quite the turning point for me. I cannot say too much about certain things, but simply make note that tenacity wins again.
Also, I will be heading to Taiwan again on Thursday, and will be back just after Christmas. It won't be the first Christmas I've spent on a plane.
On a side note completely unrelated to all above topics('cept maybe finals):
Starcraft custom games are fun. Especially "Star Battle." However, they rapidly degraded my already poor skill at vanilla Starcraft.
I have been taking pictures with my D90(Nikki, not the most inspired of names, I know). I'll do a post of photos later.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Confused
I'm sitting in my last class of my BA for my Business Finance degree, and the professor is having a review for our final the coming Monday...
And I have no idea what he's talking about.
Chances are, this is going to suck.
That and I just spent $400USD on Christmas gifts. Christmas season is truly one of the most terrible times of the year, ranking up there with the the August/September start-of-school season.
In other news:
On Monday night, after my last final, the Geminid meteor shower is gonna happen. Let us hope it is not an omen about "stars falling down" or such nonsense.
I do want to go see it though.
And I have no idea what he's talking about.
Chances are, this is going to suck.
That and I just spent $400USD on Christmas gifts. Christmas season is truly one of the most terrible times of the year, ranking up there with the the August/September start-of-school season.
In other news:
On Monday night, after my last final, the Geminid meteor shower is gonna happen. Let us hope it is not an omen about "stars falling down" or such nonsense.
I do want to go see it though.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Sushi Koyo
This place has quickly taken it's rightful place as my favorite restaurant. The atmosphere is relaxed, the food is better than sex(maybe, I don't quite remember), and the people you meet are awesome.
Just today, I met a guy, Steve (age 62, as of next week), talked a bit, shared a bottle of Asahi. He apparently travels a lot, and was once in the waste paper, like recycling paper) business. Interesting, friendly guy. Told me about his adventures on Facebook, and the son that may or may not be his. The atmosphere lends itself to quiet relaxed conversation among strangers.
The chef(only one) is an old Japanese guy named Hiro. He has an interesting business model: Insult the customers while serving them the best sushi they will ever have.
It happens to be a very successful model. The regulars go nowhere else. I find it hard to eat sushi elsewhere now that I'm hooked.
Now if only it were cheaper...
Just today, I met a guy, Steve (age 62, as of next week), talked a bit, shared a bottle of Asahi. He apparently travels a lot, and was once in the waste paper, like recycling paper) business. Interesting, friendly guy. Told me about his adventures on Facebook, and the son that may or may not be his. The atmosphere lends itself to quiet relaxed conversation among strangers.
The chef(only one) is an old Japanese guy named Hiro. He has an interesting business model: Insult the customers while serving them the best sushi they will ever have.
It happens to be a very successful model. The regulars go nowhere else. I find it hard to eat sushi elsewhere now that I'm hooked.
Now if only it were cheaper...
Monday, November 29, 2010
Snowboards and Cameras
Two things of note happened this last week.
I got that DSLR I wanted, and I went snowboarding for the first time.
In the December of 2008, I recall picking up a couple of photography magazines at an airport newsstand on the way to Taiwan. Prominently featured in both magazines was the then-new Nikon D90. It was my single greatest desire to own one of these cameras for the next six months or so, until gradually it was replaced in my mind with the new Canon T1i. As I had been using a Canon point-and-shoot at the time (see post : So I went to the beach and killed my camera), I figured it would be nice to have a DSLR set up to match.
As time went on, and my camera lust stayed bottled up inside, the T2i was released, and two of my friends, SuburbanDweller(who still has my tripod) and Phamtom purchased those, I thought I might get one myself to match.
Now, several months later, I finally scrape up enough money to get a camera. I head over to Costco, and see there, on the racks, the D90. Two years after it's release, it's still competitive with the newer Canon T2i(unless you're shooting video, cause then, the T2i excels). At 1279USD, it comes with a standard 18-55 kit lens, and a 70-300 telephoto. At 1409USD out the door, and 1500USD still burning a hole in my pocket, I cast my dice and made my contribution to the improvement of the economy this year.
Snowboarding yesterday, for the first time, was remarkable. I've never been so cold, yet so warm.
I've come to several conclusions:
1: Snow is cold. Snow pants are a worthy investment.
2: Wrist sprains are bad, and wrist guards are a worthy investment. I had Dakine Nova Protector glove/guard combos. Best $50 bucks I spent for this event.
3: It is cheaper to rent a board than it is to buy one, unless you plan on going snowboarding 20+ times within the usable life of that board.
4: Many short runs are easier on the legs than a few long runs, and using your feet to move a snowboard along the line to the lift is more tiring than actually going down a run.
5: The morning after, my legs feel fine, but my arms are sore. The complete opposite of when I went to sleep last night.
That's all for now.
I got that DSLR I wanted, and I went snowboarding for the first time.
In the December of 2008, I recall picking up a couple of photography magazines at an airport newsstand on the way to Taiwan. Prominently featured in both magazines was the then-new Nikon D90. It was my single greatest desire to own one of these cameras for the next six months or so, until gradually it was replaced in my mind with the new Canon T1i. As I had been using a Canon point-and-shoot at the time (see post : So I went to the beach and killed my camera), I figured it would be nice to have a DSLR set up to match.
As time went on, and my camera lust stayed bottled up inside, the T2i was released, and two of my friends, SuburbanDweller(who still has my tripod) and Phamtom purchased those, I thought I might get one myself to match.
Now, several months later, I finally scrape up enough money to get a camera. I head over to Costco, and see there, on the racks, the D90. Two years after it's release, it's still competitive with the newer Canon T2i(unless you're shooting video, cause then, the T2i excels). At 1279USD, it comes with a standard 18-55 kit lens, and a 70-300 telephoto. At 1409USD out the door, and 1500USD still burning a hole in my pocket, I cast my dice and made my contribution to the improvement of the economy this year.
Snowboarding yesterday, for the first time, was remarkable. I've never been so cold, yet so warm.
I've come to several conclusions:
1: Snow is cold. Snow pants are a worthy investment.
2: Wrist sprains are bad, and wrist guards are a worthy investment. I had Dakine Nova Protector glove/guard combos. Best $50 bucks I spent for this event.
3: It is cheaper to rent a board than it is to buy one, unless you plan on going snowboarding 20+ times within the usable life of that board.
4: Many short runs are easier on the legs than a few long runs, and using your feet to move a snowboard along the line to the lift is more tiring than actually going down a run.
5: The morning after, my legs feel fine, but my arms are sore. The complete opposite of when I went to sleep last night.
That's all for now.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Thankgiving and Brotherhood
Had Thanksgiving dinner with my friends again. Not nearly as memorable as last year, but still worth going.
Shuffled between two separate parties, and the 5-0 did show up to one of them.
Finished Assassin's Creed Brotherhood, which was a bit short. Ending is a mind****.
Planning on getting a DSLR. Perhaps a T2i(550d).
It's either that or a new set of tires, and I'm sure I'll have more fun with the camera.
Still looking to get out of the house.
Work is as usual. No school next week, but I'll barely notice.
Shuffled between two separate parties, and the 5-0 did show up to one of them.
Finished Assassin's Creed Brotherhood, which was a bit short. Ending is a mind****.
Planning on getting a DSLR. Perhaps a T2i(550d).
It's either that or a new set of tires, and I'm sure I'll have more fun with the camera.
Still looking to get out of the house.
Work is as usual. No school next week, but I'll barely notice.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Not much, just life
Got and played Black-ops, did not like. Will likely sell it back. Assassin's Creed Brotherhood comes out tonight. Yay.
Ate at Sushi Koyo, excellent as usual.
Tried Honda-ya in City of Industry. Tasty, Costly, Would Do Again.
Finished "The Pacific." Excellent. Even better, I was warm that night/morning.
Best night in quite some time. Morning even more fun.
Makes me want to move out even more now.
Painted the fence I've been putting off for the last two weeks.
Met a neighbor/friend that I hadn't seen for a while. Updated mental fact sheet.
Work is as usual.
Need to catch up on my homework.
Need to do Christmas shopping, even if I won't be around for Christmas.
Ate at Sushi Koyo, excellent as usual.
Tried Honda-ya in City of Industry. Tasty, Costly, Would Do Again.
Finished "The Pacific." Excellent. Even better, I was warm that night/morning.
Best night in quite some time. Morning even more fun.
Makes me want to move out even more now.
Painted the fence I've been putting off for the last two weeks.
Met a neighbor/friend that I hadn't seen for a while. Updated mental fact sheet.
Work is as usual.
Need to catch up on my homework.
Need to do Christmas shopping, even if I won't be around for Christmas.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
What I did this week
The one thing I did not do this week, that I said I would, is go to the titty bar.
And I can't decide whether or not I regret it.
David/Constantin had a party last night.
Jeremiah plays the bongos.
And if mead was viking beer, the vikings had a hell of a good time in their party halls.
Gave a looted surfboard to Frank at DK Cabinets.
Visited the last Irish holdout in Diamond Bar, Happy's Bar and Grill.
Nerf gun war at Tiffy's apartment on Wednesday, where their "ambush" on unsuspecting innocent was countered by said innocent prepared for an assault. Had Icewine.
Assuming nothing great happened on Monday or Tuesday, because I can't remember either.
Oh, wait. I voted. And pretty much everything/one I voted for did not pass or get elected except for Cali assemblyman and House representative.
And I can't decide whether or not I regret it.
David/Constantin had a party last night.
Jeremiah plays the bongos.
And if mead was viking beer, the vikings had a hell of a good time in their party halls.
Gave a looted surfboard to Frank at DK Cabinets.
Visited the last Irish holdout in Diamond Bar, Happy's Bar and Grill.
Nerf gun war at Tiffy's apartment on Wednesday, where their "ambush" on unsuspecting innocent was countered by said innocent prepared for an assault. Had Icewine.
Assuming nothing great happened on Monday or Tuesday, because I can't remember either.
Oh, wait. I voted. And pretty much everything/one I voted for did not pass or get elected except for Cali assemblyman and House representative.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Phantom of the Opera, Oinksters, and Halloween
Watched Phantom of the Opera today, apparently their final day in Los Angeles. Seats were alright, row V in the far left.
Didn't like the Christine Daae much, but the Phantom, a Stephen Tewksbery, was pretty good. The Twins that I had brought along were much more critical, though I suppose I'm just more forgiving and laid back like that.
Went to Oinkster for late lunch afterward. That was excellent, had the "Dark Night" brew, was dark and chocolate-y.
Spent the evening at David's. Conversated with David's father, drank a little, and gave trick-or-treat'rs lemons, because we totally forgot it was Halloween. Took Bombay home, and answered a question that she didn't believe the answer to, but hey, meh.
Will be voting on Tuesday.
I think I'm going Meg Whitman. Actually, I'll likely go Republican down the line.
And the Propositions? I'll think about it tomorrow.
Didn't like the Christine Daae much, but the Phantom, a Stephen Tewksbery, was pretty good. The Twins that I had brought along were much more critical, though I suppose I'm just more forgiving and laid back like that.
Went to Oinkster for late lunch afterward. That was excellent, had the "Dark Night" brew, was dark and chocolate-y.
Spent the evening at David's. Conversated with David's father, drank a little, and gave trick-or-treat'rs lemons, because we totally forgot it was Halloween. Took Bombay home, and answered a question that she didn't believe the answer to, but hey, meh.
Will be voting on Tuesday.
I think I'm going Meg Whitman. Actually, I'll likely go Republican down the line.
And the Propositions? I'll think about it tomorrow.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
First Encounter with Energy Drinks
For the first twenty-one years of my life, I have abstained from drinking...
Energy drinks that is, I would never give up alky.
Well, yesterday, as part of the procedure to procure a ride to a friend's birthday(which, from the pictures and the parts I remember, was awesome!) I was made to drink a 24oz can of Four Loko(Blue Rasberry), and my results can be summed up in a haze of disgust, fun, and inability to sleep.
That and I hate myself right now; if this is what normal people's hangovers feel like, give me back my quick and dirty, high-metabolism hangovers!
Pics from the night can be found of FB, for those that know me. For those that don't, well, you wouldn't be interested anyway.
Energy drinks that is, I would never give up alky.
Well, yesterday, as part of the procedure to procure a ride to a friend's birthday(which, from the pictures and the parts I remember, was awesome!) I was made to drink a 24oz can of Four Loko(Blue Rasberry), and my results can be summed up in a haze of disgust, fun, and inability to sleep.
That and I hate myself right now; if this is what normal people's hangovers feel like, give me back my quick and dirty, high-metabolism hangovers!
Pics from the night can be found of FB, for those that know me. For those that don't, well, you wouldn't be interested anyway.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
What I would like in my new place
Putting together a list of things I want/need in my new place. The list is quite telling.
Want: 2-3 Bedrooms, 2+ Bath
Need: 1 Bed, 1 Bath
Want: 1000+ SqFt
Need: 500 SqFt
Want: Private, country-ish location, with acres of land and a view
Need: Private, 1/2 acre
Want: FiOS and DirecTV
Need: FiOS
Want: Location between LA/OC counties, within 10 miles of home and school
Need: Location between LA/OC counties, within 10 miles of home and school
Want: <$150,000
Need: <$300,000
Want: Many hot nubile females in neighborhood
Need: No gangs in the neighborhood
Anything else, I can either get, fix, or build by myself.
Want: 2-3 Bedrooms, 2+ Bath
Need: 1 Bed, 1 Bath
Want: 1000+ SqFt
Need: 500 SqFt
Want: Private, country-ish location, with acres of land and a view
Need: Private, 1/2 acre
Want: FiOS and DirecTV
Need: FiOS
Want: Location between LA/OC counties, within 10 miles of home and school
Need: Location between LA/OC counties, within 10 miles of home and school
Want: <$150,000
Need: <$300,000
Want: Many hot nubile females in neighborhood
Need: No gangs in the neighborhood
Anything else, I can either get, fix, or build by myself.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Growing Pains
Sitting at work while musing over the near future. I'm wearing a suit for work, an increasingly common occurrence. Today, after auction, I'll be going to a hearing and the county tax assessor's office.
Getting older.
Some differences I've noticed just in the past few years:
I work more than I play now.
School is no longer my first priority(not that it was before).
My alcohol of choice is now scotch, which I used to hate, kinda like how I used to dislike salad. Be it as it may, Choya plum wine will still maintain a bastion in my liver.
I no longer write in pencil. I can't even find a pencil when I need one.
And I can now seriously entertain the idea of moving out. Probably the only good to come out of all this, although the "good" is debatable.
Other concerns I've laid to the side:
Girls: I don't really think about them as females as much as I used to, but now focus my thoughts more on the social networking aspects instead. That's not to say I'm now ignoring girls entirely, just that I no longer simply judge them by how attractive they are and what my chances are at hooking up with them. I also no longer actively pursue new relations.
Games and movies: there's a stack of untouched disks on my shelf, and I find myself unbothered by this fact.
Friends: I know I've been ignoring some of them in favor of my work, and it shows in the number of events I am (not) invited to. At the same time, the fact that I feel the need to invite myself to those events I can attend annoy all parties involved (including myself) to some degree and further worsens my relationship with those friends that still remain.
At this rate, I will likely become a workaholic hermit living alone in my house in the suburban backwoods.
I'm growing up, and I'm not sure I'm enjoying it.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Getting older.
Some differences I've noticed just in the past few years:
I work more than I play now.
School is no longer my first priority(not that it was before).
My alcohol of choice is now scotch, which I used to hate, kinda like how I used to dislike salad. Be it as it may, Choya plum wine will still maintain a bastion in my liver.
I no longer write in pencil. I can't even find a pencil when I need one.
And I can now seriously entertain the idea of moving out. Probably the only good to come out of all this, although the "good" is debatable.
Other concerns I've laid to the side:
Girls: I don't really think about them as females as much as I used to, but now focus my thoughts more on the social networking aspects instead. That's not to say I'm now ignoring girls entirely, just that I no longer simply judge them by how attractive they are and what my chances are at hooking up with them. I also no longer actively pursue new relations.
Games and movies: there's a stack of untouched disks on my shelf, and I find myself unbothered by this fact.
Friends: I know I've been ignoring some of them in favor of my work, and it shows in the number of events I am (not) invited to. At the same time, the fact that I feel the need to invite myself to those events I can attend annoy all parties involved (including myself) to some degree and further worsens my relationship with those friends that still remain.
At this rate, I will likely become a workaholic hermit living alone in my house in the suburban backwoods.
I'm growing up, and I'm not sure I'm enjoying it.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Shooting Star
I saw a big ass shooting star tonight. It made my day.
Tonight, Nan, Tiffy, and me laid out on the big concrete pad in Tiffy's back yard till each of us saw a shooting star. Success.
Also went down to SD. Made it down there, but was quite bored. David shipped Kristine all the way from Baltimore to be his date for tonight's Navy Ball, and we went down to SD to hang out for the precious little time Kristine had in California. Not so much of a success since it was dull. Ate David's purple birthday cake roll, went to Extraordinary Desserts and had tea.
The night was the best part of the day, I think.
Kevin crashed his bike again.
Tired. Sleep now.
Tonight, Nan, Tiffy, and me laid out on the big concrete pad in Tiffy's back yard till each of us saw a shooting star. Success.
Also went down to SD. Made it down there, but was quite bored. David shipped Kristine all the way from Baltimore to be his date for tonight's Navy Ball, and we went down to SD to hang out for the precious little time Kristine had in California. Not so much of a success since it was dull. Ate David's purple birthday cake roll, went to Extraordinary Desserts and had tea.
The night was the best part of the day, I think.
Kevin crashed his bike again.
Tired. Sleep now.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Over a year...Status Update 1
Y'know, I just realized that it's been little over a year since I launched this record of my life. And I'm proud to say that I've kept up with it. My, what changes in such a short time...
All the adventures of the past year, all the new responsibilities of a developing adult, all the new abilities acquired, and all the old habits left by the wayside. The signs of my growth(or my decay...).
Here's a quick glance at the status menu:
Age: 22
Height: 5'8"
Weight: 138lbs
Strength: 15 Pull-ups, 35 Push-ups(Perfect)
Stamina: 10 minute mile
Intelligence: Not yet a BA
Luck: So far so good
Status Ailments: Lactose Intolerant, Scoville Tolerance = 0,
Overall Physical Shape: Could be better
Armaments: 11 firearms total, 20+ blades
Current Firearm Choice: Kel-Tec SU-16CA (Kali), Remington 870 Tactical 12ga (Triela), Citadel 1911A1 .45 (Taylor)
Current Blade Choice: Cold Steel Recon Tanto, Benchmade Osborne 940, Leatherman Charge Ti
Apparel of Choice: 5.11 Tac-lite Pants, Condor Soft-Shell Jacket, 5.11 Advance Boots, Misc.
Political Views: Libertarian (Live and let live, and leave my guns alone!)
Relationship Status: N/A
Drink of Choice: Scotch Whisky
Currently Reading: The Alchemist, The History of the World in Six Glasses, Hill of Swords(FF), KBDH!(FF)
Favorite Book: Atlas Shrugged
Currently Watching: Castle S2, How I Met Your Mother S6, Top Gear S?
Current Abode: At home
Current Active Hobbies: Ocarina, Rock Climbing, Archery, Backpacking, Shooting
Newly Acquired Skills: Lockpicking, Rock Climbing, Archery
Currently Playing: Starcraft 2, Assassin's Creed 2
Goals for the coming year:
Move out, preferably by summertime
Get income to 200k+, catch up to my taxes (Unlikely goal, but shoot for the moon)
Get into a suitable relationship
Make more reliable friends
Maintain this blog.
See y'all this time next year!
All the adventures of the past year, all the new responsibilities of a developing adult, all the new abilities acquired, and all the old habits left by the wayside. The signs of my growth(or my decay...).
Here's a quick glance at the status menu:
Age: 22
Height: 5'8"
Weight: 138lbs
Strength: 15 Pull-ups, 35 Push-ups(Perfect)
Stamina: 10 minute mile
Intelligence: Not yet a BA
Luck: So far so good
Status Ailments: Lactose Intolerant, Scoville Tolerance = 0,
Overall Physical Shape: Could be better
Armaments: 11 firearms total, 20+ blades
Current Firearm Choice: Kel-Tec SU-16CA (Kali), Remington 870 Tactical 12ga (Triela), Citadel 1911A1 .45 (Taylor)
Current Blade Choice: Cold Steel Recon Tanto, Benchmade Osborne 940, Leatherman Charge Ti
Apparel of Choice: 5.11 Tac-lite Pants, Condor Soft-Shell Jacket, 5.11 Advance Boots, Misc.
Political Views: Libertarian (Live and let live, and leave my guns alone!)
Relationship Status: N/A
Drink of Choice: Scotch Whisky
Currently Reading: The Alchemist, The History of the World in Six Glasses, Hill of Swords(FF), KBDH!(FF)
Favorite Book: Atlas Shrugged
Currently Watching: Castle S2, How I Met Your Mother S6, Top Gear S?
Current Abode: At home
Current Active Hobbies: Ocarina, Rock Climbing, Archery, Backpacking, Shooting
Newly Acquired Skills: Lockpicking, Rock Climbing, Archery
Currently Playing: Starcraft 2, Assassin's Creed 2
Goals for the coming year:
Move out, preferably by summertime
Get income to 200k+, catch up to my taxes (Unlikely goal, but shoot for the moon)
Get into a suitable relationship
Make more reliable friends
Maintain this blog.
See y'all this time next year!
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Coversations
It was probably rattling around in my head somewhere, but tonight, it all came into focus.
JT(a cuddle-buddy...Well, my last remaining cuddle-buddy), the closest thing to a significant other that I have, and my closest female friend, has left me. Ironically, for another guy with the same name as me. And not a white guy. I don't think my ego could handle another one. (back-story: all the girls I've dated have turned to white men after me, with one exception...and exception that didn't survive.)
At the same time, I'm not really sure if she left. She didn't give a definitive "I'm out," and the conversation ended on a fuzzy and iffy note. But I will write this as if she did leave...
First off, I'd like to describe what I believe love to be. To me, love is when you want someone to be happy, despite what costs you pay for it. Love is when you are happy that he/she is happy, even if it's not with you.
Love is when you find happiness in his/her joy, no matter what you had to give up to create it.
I'd apply this definition to love of any kind, be it friendly, brotherly, familial, or romantic. And I will say that I do love her, but she uses a different definition than I, and I could not give her the "love" that she wanted. I really didn't feel a romantic love towards her. I felt our relationship of intimate friendship to be far superior to any romantic relationship we could have had. (That and her smoking habit annoyed me to no end, hypocrisy or not.)
And that's why she left. But I can't say I'm too sad about it. I mean, I will be lonely again, but that hole in my chest that loneliness created has been there for quite some time, and I doubt this will make it much bigger than it already is.
Actually, I'm kinda happy for her, that she was able to find someone "like (me), but a million times nicer!" She said it in a nice way, so don't go thinking she's a bitch. It sounds better in person than on paper, especially with more contextual conversation.
I'd like to think of him as an improved me. A 2.0, for lack of a better term. While she did give me opportunities to stop her from leaving and keep her, she often spoke of the opportunities and relationships that she gave up because of me. It didn't really come as a surprise. For the last several months, we did not have as much contact as we had once upon a time. I'd be lucky to see her five hours a month towards the end.
This situation does, however, lend credence to my thoughts of what pants I would be at long term relationships.
I'd like to say "What's done is done," but I can't, seeing as there is a possibility of her coming back, as her parting words were rather ambiguous.
We'll see how this plays out.
Either way, that hole in my chest will have to sort itself out.
JT(a cuddle-buddy...Well, my last remaining cuddle-buddy), the closest thing to a significant other that I have, and my closest female friend, has left me. Ironically, for another guy with the same name as me. And not a white guy. I don't think my ego could handle another one. (back-story: all the girls I've dated have turned to white men after me, with one exception...and exception that didn't survive.)
At the same time, I'm not really sure if she left. She didn't give a definitive "I'm out," and the conversation ended on a fuzzy and iffy note. But I will write this as if she did leave...
First off, I'd like to describe what I believe love to be. To me, love is when you want someone to be happy, despite what costs you pay for it. Love is when you are happy that he/she is happy, even if it's not with you.
Love is when you find happiness in his/her joy, no matter what you had to give up to create it.
I'd apply this definition to love of any kind, be it friendly, brotherly, familial, or romantic. And I will say that I do love her, but she uses a different definition than I, and I could not give her the "love" that she wanted. I really didn't feel a romantic love towards her. I felt our relationship of intimate friendship to be far superior to any romantic relationship we could have had. (That and her smoking habit annoyed me to no end, hypocrisy or not.)
And that's why she left. But I can't say I'm too sad about it. I mean, I will be lonely again, but that hole in my chest that loneliness created has been there for quite some time, and I doubt this will make it much bigger than it already is.
Actually, I'm kinda happy for her, that she was able to find someone "like (me), but a million times nicer!" She said it in a nice way, so don't go thinking she's a bitch. It sounds better in person than on paper, especially with more contextual conversation.
I'd like to think of him as an improved me. A 2.0, for lack of a better term. While she did give me opportunities to stop her from leaving and keep her, she often spoke of the opportunities and relationships that she gave up because of me. It didn't really come as a surprise. For the last several months, we did not have as much contact as we had once upon a time. I'd be lucky to see her five hours a month towards the end.
This situation does, however, lend credence to my thoughts of what pants I would be at long term relationships.
I'd like to say "What's done is done," but I can't, seeing as there is a possibility of her coming back, as her parting words were rather ambiguous.
We'll see how this plays out.
Either way, that hole in my chest will have to sort itself out.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Persistence made my night
or I would have spent it watching Gray's Anatomy. And that would have sucked.
Instead, me and two others went on a short jaunt to Turtle Rock in the heights above Irvine. Again, I found out how out of shape I was, but was in good shape comparatively. The view up there was great, both the city lights and the moon.
I'm told that this year is the smallest Singing Moon, and every full moon starting from next year will gradually become larger.
Assassin's Creed 2 has so far proven awesome and not at all repetitive as its predecessor. And I did test out of the CSUF climbing wall. (Note to self: Remember, the right hand is always closer to the grigri)
In other news:
I decided I like Africa better than I like Rosanna.
And Uncrate is awesome, and this tells me why.
Instead, me and two others went on a short jaunt to Turtle Rock in the heights above Irvine. Again, I found out how out of shape I was, but was in good shape comparatively. The view up there was great, both the city lights and the moon.
I'm told that this year is the smallest Singing Moon, and every full moon starting from next year will gradually become larger.
Assassin's Creed 2 has so far proven awesome and not at all repetitive as its predecessor. And I did test out of the CSUF climbing wall. (Note to self: Remember, the right hand is always closer to the grigri)
In other news:
I decided I like Africa better than I like Rosanna.
And Uncrate is awesome, and this tells me why.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Dreams and Related Actions, + Summary
A few nights ago, I dreamed of running over rooftops, climbing walls, and gleaming blades.
After mulling about it for a bit, I realized what I had to do.
Today, I purchased Assassin's Creed II.
More on that in further posts.
Had "Meat Night" on Saturday with Kevin, Tiffy, Richard, and Nan. Was enjoyable.
Visited new Total Wine and More in Brea. It was ginormous. It was glorious. Purchased a 12yr Highland Park to replace the Glenfiddich I'm about to finish. Price ain't too bad.
I'll probably try to test out on the CSUF rock wall tomorrow or Wednesday. Climbing also made me realize yet again how out of shape I am. But I find that it's not that I lack the willpower to work out/exercise, but that it's a boring activity. Company would be nice, but most likely unavailable on my schedule.
On another note, I broached the subject of moving out of the house with my parents. Did not go well, but did not go badly either. Will attempt to get them to agree to let me live at the La Habra cottage if it cannot be sold by the time I graduate. Discussion also ranged to occupational questions. It has been decided that a broker's license and a general contractor's license is in my future...as is a reduced chance of romantic relations with members of the fairer sex.
In other news:
Season 3 of Castle premieres tonight. I plan on a night of me, a sixth bottle of Glenfiddich, and Castle, with a game of Starcraft thrown in there somewhere, and paperwork on top everything.
Zhongqiujie is Thursday. I hope to spend it doing something other than drinking scotch by myself on the balcony while puffing cigarillos and eating mooncake, but as it stands, this is the most likely outcome.
After mulling about it for a bit, I realized what I had to do.
Today, I purchased Assassin's Creed II.
More on that in further posts.
Had "Meat Night" on Saturday with Kevin, Tiffy, Richard, and Nan. Was enjoyable.
Visited new Total Wine and More in Brea. It was ginormous. It was glorious. Purchased a 12yr Highland Park to replace the Glenfiddich I'm about to finish. Price ain't too bad.
I'll probably try to test out on the CSUF rock wall tomorrow or Wednesday. Climbing also made me realize yet again how out of shape I am. But I find that it's not that I lack the willpower to work out/exercise, but that it's a boring activity. Company would be nice, but most likely unavailable on my schedule.
On another note, I broached the subject of moving out of the house with my parents. Did not go well, but did not go badly either. Will attempt to get them to agree to let me live at the La Habra cottage if it cannot be sold by the time I graduate. Discussion also ranged to occupational questions. It has been decided that a broker's license and a general contractor's license is in my future...as is a reduced chance of romantic relations with members of the fairer sex.
In other news:
Season 3 of Castle premieres tonight. I plan on a night of me, a sixth bottle of Glenfiddich, and Castle, with a game of Starcraft thrown in there somewhere, and paperwork on top everything.
Zhongqiujie is Thursday. I hope to spend it doing something other than drinking scotch by myself on the balcony while puffing cigarillos and eating mooncake, but as it stands, this is the most likely outcome.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Climbing
Coincidentally, and I mean that in the "once is chance" kinda way, indoor rock climbing has taken center stage of my past week.
Thursday, I met up with my old Fairmont classmate, Alex. He had previously said that he wanted to try out the climbing wall at CSUF. He is apparently experienced in the sport, being a supervisor at his own UCI rock wall.
As a side note, isn't it amazing how guys can meet up after 8 years apart and can pretty much grunt and fall into old patterns without getting excited and interrogating each other over what the other did over the previous years?
Anyways, I joined Alex in his adventure, letting him in as a guest in the CUSF recreation center. End result: my first experience with indoor rock climbing. I didn't want to wear the rock climbing shoes they provided, instead relying on my Vibram Five Fingers, which I thought turned out pretty well. If I get more into this sport, I might consider getting shoes of my own, but until then....meh.
But an essential piece of equipment I realized was immediately necessary was chalk and a chalk bag, right when I discovered my hands tuned into portable swamps when climbing.
After this first foray into climbing, I joined another group of friends on their adventure to Hanger 18 that Saturday, newly acquired chalk in hand. And really, I don't know if it was the company, or because I was more prepared for it, but it was a much better experience this time around. I again went with the Five Fingers, and experienced some of its limitations compared to actual rock climbing shoes, but they worked. I also saw this HOPA rock climber, who was freaking incredible, both in looks and skill. If I ever get that good, maybe some girl would say the same thing about me one day.
just sayin...
In other news:
Halo: Reach is being released tonight. And I don't have a pre-order. Or an Xbox. I do want to play the game, but I have no faith in the hardware after my, and 13 of my friends', Xbox red-ringed. Maybe I'll get a Slim after a few months or so, unless Reach totally blows me away and I get one within the next few weeks.
I'd rather spend the money on climbing and shooting gear though.
Thursday, I met up with my old Fairmont classmate, Alex. He had previously said that he wanted to try out the climbing wall at CSUF. He is apparently experienced in the sport, being a supervisor at his own UCI rock wall.
As a side note, isn't it amazing how guys can meet up after 8 years apart and can pretty much grunt and fall into old patterns without getting excited and interrogating each other over what the other did over the previous years?
Anyways, I joined Alex in his adventure, letting him in as a guest in the CUSF recreation center. End result: my first experience with indoor rock climbing. I didn't want to wear the rock climbing shoes they provided, instead relying on my Vibram Five Fingers, which I thought turned out pretty well. If I get more into this sport, I might consider getting shoes of my own, but until then....meh.
But an essential piece of equipment I realized was immediately necessary was chalk and a chalk bag, right when I discovered my hands tuned into portable swamps when climbing.
After this first foray into climbing, I joined another group of friends on their adventure to Hanger 18 that Saturday, newly acquired chalk in hand. And really, I don't know if it was the company, or because I was more prepared for it, but it was a much better experience this time around. I again went with the Five Fingers, and experienced some of its limitations compared to actual rock climbing shoes, but they worked. I also saw this HOPA rock climber, who was freaking incredible, both in looks and skill. If I ever get that good, maybe some girl would say the same thing about me one day.
just sayin...
In other news:
Halo: Reach is being released tonight. And I don't have a pre-order. Or an Xbox. I do want to play the game, but I have no faith in the hardware after my, and 13 of my friends', Xbox red-ringed. Maybe I'll get a Slim after a few months or so, unless Reach totally blows me away and I get one within the next few weeks.
I'd rather spend the money on climbing and shooting gear though.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Restaurants
People often observe that every time we finish a meal, I immediately want to leave, ie. "You can't sit still and enjoy the atmosphere?"
First of all, this ain't like afterglow or post-coital cuddling, which I can enjoy just fine. It's just that sitting around in a restaurant pales in comparison to sitting around on some comfy couches at home, or going off on new adventures. It would be different had we all ordered drinks and desert or sommat, but we may as well go to a bar or a drink shop for that.
The second reason is I've spent too much of my life waiting for tables in busy restaurants, and Id rather not subject anyone else to it in a fit of hypocrisy. Case in point, this last Saturday. I'd bet the shabu would have tasted a lot better without the bad taste of waiting so long in my mouth.
Oh, and Tiffy's new apartment? The lock sucks ass. Just sayin.
Oh, and for the other Young twin, the new couch is nice n' all, but really, count the cushions before you drive off with it next time.
First of all, this ain't like afterglow or post-coital cuddling, which I can enjoy just fine. It's just that sitting around in a restaurant pales in comparison to sitting around on some comfy couches at home, or going off on new adventures. It would be different had we all ordered drinks and desert or sommat, but we may as well go to a bar or a drink shop for that.
The second reason is I've spent too much of my life waiting for tables in busy restaurants, and Id rather not subject anyone else to it in a fit of hypocrisy. Case in point, this last Saturday. I'd bet the shabu would have tasted a lot better without the bad taste of waiting so long in my mouth.
Oh, and Tiffy's new apartment? The lock sucks ass. Just sayin.
Oh, and for the other Young twin, the new couch is nice n' all, but really, count the cushions before you drive off with it next time.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
The Enemy
We are beset on all sides by the enemies of life;
Exhaustion, Stress, Hunger, Fear, all these and more.
But the most annoying and least important of all,
and yet may be the most important and driving of all
is Sexual Frustration.
Exhaustion, Stress, Hunger, Fear, all these and more.
But the most annoying and least important of all,
and yet may be the most important and driving of all
is Sexual Frustration.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010
Thoughts and Developments
Been contemplating a lot these days. Work is less hectic than usual due to cycle reasons, giving me lots of spare time to catch up on stuff and start working on that big stack of books I've been meaning to read (starting with Stiff by Mary Roach).
I realized that with the departure of SuburbanDweller, I find myself with a shortage of available companions, and have resorted to driving down to OC where another group of friends reside. It's not a long drive, but it is a drive, nonetheless.
School is, as expected, boring, and expensive for the bore-fest they put us through. As a matter of fact, I'm writing this in class as the teacher attempts (and fails) to interest me in his lecture.
I've again taken on a new hobby. Archery has proven as fun as I had expected, if not more so. The entire time I was at Hi-Tech Archery (Beginners classes on Saturdays 15-1600hrs, $15USD) I was screaming excitedly in my head, "OMGOMGOMG cheeeeep shooting!!!!"
Yes, for those of you that know me personally, guns and ammo have put enough of a dent in my nowadays-thin wallet to give me pause and consider alternatives.
While it won't take the place in my heart that guns currently occupy, I can see archery making it's own niche somewhere in that hollow lump of granite.
Oh, and I ate at California Fish Grill some time last week, and it was good enough to mention here. As was House of Shabu Shabu (AYCE includes lamb, + sushi, and a 6 glass pitcher of Newcastle was only $9USD!).
In other news:
Will be purchasing a recurve bow soon as able. Soon as able being defined as "Do I really want to buy my textbooks?".
Also going to Lytle Creek Range on 9/11. How better to pass the anniversary of that attack on the American Way than to go shoot things, drink beer(hopefully), and eat BBQ(hopefully), with a bunch of hyphenated Americans?
Anyone want to come with?
I realized that with the departure of SuburbanDweller, I find myself with a shortage of available companions, and have resorted to driving down to OC where another group of friends reside. It's not a long drive, but it is a drive, nonetheless.
School is, as expected, boring, and expensive for the bore-fest they put us through. As a matter of fact, I'm writing this in class as the teacher attempts (and fails) to interest me in his lecture.
I've again taken on a new hobby. Archery has proven as fun as I had expected, if not more so. The entire time I was at Hi-Tech Archery (Beginners classes on Saturdays 15-1600hrs, $15USD) I was screaming excitedly in my head, "OMGOMGOMG cheeeeep shooting!!!!"
Yes, for those of you that know me personally, guns and ammo have put enough of a dent in my nowadays-thin wallet to give me pause and consider alternatives.
While it won't take the place in my heart that guns currently occupy, I can see archery making it's own niche somewhere in that hollow lump of granite.
Oh, and I ate at California Fish Grill some time last week, and it was good enough to mention here. As was House of Shabu Shabu (AYCE includes lamb, + sushi, and a 6 glass pitcher of Newcastle was only $9USD!).
In other news:
Will be purchasing a recurve bow soon as able. Soon as able being defined as "Do I really want to buy my textbooks?".
Also going to Lytle Creek Range on 9/11. How better to pass the anniversary of that attack on the American Way than to go shoot things, drink beer(hopefully), and eat BBQ(hopefully), with a bunch of hyphenated Americans?
Anyone want to come with?
Monday, August 23, 2010
The end, or the beginning?
Started school today. Only two classes this semester, really more for kicks than for any serious reason.
The classes themselves aren't all that fun, and I've already fallen asleep in the first one. They do seem related to my work, so I should be thankful for the fact that they may possibly be of use to me in life.
The real question I'm asking myself is:
Is this the beginning of the end, or is it the end of the beginning?
The classes themselves aren't all that fun, and I've already fallen asleep in the first one. They do seem related to my work, so I should be thankful for the fact that they may possibly be of use to me in life.
The real question I'm asking myself is:
Is this the beginning of the end, or is it the end of the beginning?
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Surfing
I am now a proper surfing Kalifornian.
Had surfing lessons today with some friends, driving all the way down to San Diego for them. Spent 1.5 hours with instructors, and an additional hour free play. Saw Tiffy in a two piece, smiling. Was different from her usual boy jeans, t-shirt, and scowl.
Remarkable.
After, we went to go eat at Phil's BBQ.
Went to Extraordinary Desserts for, well...dessert, where Tiffy chose a remarkably good tea. Eden, a Japanese sencha with hints of green apple. Also realized that my morning tea was as freaking expensive as my mother says it is (Iron Goddess of Mercy Oolong, premium grade).Was curious about the tea Ginza Girl, but at $30 for a 2.8oz tin, was not intrigued enough.
As I was designated driver of the day, when I went to drop off Tiffy, we realized that no one was at her apartment, and she didn't have keys. End result?
I break into places even on my days off.
In other news:
Archery lessons next Saturday. Let's do this.
Had surfing lessons today with some friends, driving all the way down to San Diego for them. Spent 1.5 hours with instructors, and an additional hour free play. Saw Tiffy in a two piece, smiling. Was different from her usual boy jeans, t-shirt, and scowl.
Remarkable.
After, we went to go eat at Phil's BBQ.
Went to Extraordinary Desserts for, well...dessert, where Tiffy chose a remarkably good tea. Eden, a Japanese sencha with hints of green apple. Also realized that my morning tea was as freaking expensive as my mother says it is (Iron Goddess of Mercy Oolong, premium grade).Was curious about the tea Ginza Girl, but at $30 for a 2.8oz tin, was not intrigued enough.
As I was designated driver of the day, when I went to drop off Tiffy, we realized that no one was at her apartment, and she didn't have keys. End result?
I break into places even on my days off.
In other news:
Archery lessons next Saturday. Let's do this.
Friday, August 13, 2010
Disneyland, the Beach
Went to Disneyland for the first time since....wow...December 2006?
It changed some, and because of the Parkhopper tickets I was able to procure from a debtor, I was able to check out California Adventure for the first time. Loved the "Flying over California" ride.
Also dropped by Corona State Beach, Milk and Honey(this shop my friend won't stop ranting about) and a new Ramen place across the street from it.
It's been a very enjoyable week for me, and hopefully for my guest too.
Ended up promising her that I'd become a more outgoing person rather than the unhumored, silent type that she sees me as. Oh, and that I introduce her to the girlfriend that I'm supposed to get. Whenever that is.
In other news:
SuburbanDweller is moving to San Francisco. Am of mixed feelings about it. He has been a constant in my life for over 16 years now, so it'll be odd for him to no longer be readily available. At the same time, he has been trying to get into this school for a long time, and I'm happy and proud that he actually made it.
Also, another friend is leaving for Hong Kong soon.
Next year is going to socially suck.
And I have a sudden interest in pore strips.
It changed some, and because of the Parkhopper tickets I was able to procure from a debtor, I was able to check out California Adventure for the first time. Loved the "Flying over California" ride.
Also dropped by Corona State Beach, Milk and Honey(this shop my friend won't stop ranting about) and a new Ramen place across the street from it.
It's been a very enjoyable week for me, and hopefully for my guest too.
Ended up promising her that I'd become a more outgoing person rather than the unhumored, silent type that she sees me as. Oh, and that I introduce her to the girlfriend that I'm supposed to get. Whenever that is.
In other news:
SuburbanDweller is moving to San Francisco. Am of mixed feelings about it. He has been a constant in my life for over 16 years now, so it'll be odd for him to no longer be readily available. At the same time, he has been trying to get into this school for a long time, and I'm happy and proud that he actually made it.
Also, another friend is leaving for Hong Kong soon.
Next year is going to socially suck.
And I have a sudden interest in pore strips.
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Lots has happened,
but I'm too tired to write too much about it.
Let's see....
Besides work, I played Ultimate Frisbee in the dark, and met with two friends I haven't seen for a while at K'ya.
Also, on Thursday night, one of the Tustin Krew went AWOL. A hundred and a half miles, six hours, and two police reports later, he contacted us, saying he was at home. (Note to self, have to do something nice for the guys and repay the favors owed.)
Last night, she (see post: Plans Shot) finally made it here, after missing another flight. Took her bungee jumping today for what was supposed to be a overnight camping trip, but turned out to be but one day after I realized she walked faster than I thought she would.
The rest of the week is spent as a tour guide, with work thrown in, here and there.
In other news:
Hadn't had time to be keepin' up with that.
Let's see....
Besides work, I played Ultimate Frisbee in the dark, and met with two friends I haven't seen for a while at K'ya.
Also, on Thursday night, one of the Tustin Krew went AWOL. A hundred and a half miles, six hours, and two police reports later, he contacted us, saying he was at home. (Note to self, have to do something nice for the guys and repay the favors owed.)
Last night, she (see post: Plans Shot) finally made it here, after missing another flight. Took her bungee jumping today for what was supposed to be a overnight camping trip, but turned out to be but one day after I realized she walked faster than I thought she would.
The rest of the week is spent as a tour guide, with work thrown in, here and there.
In other news:
Hadn't had time to be keepin' up with that.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Busy week
Got Starcraft 2 and finished the campaign. I really don't care too much about the game, but the story intrigues me. And I like the ending and it's predictable cheesiness.
Sucks about Tychus, but how the hell did Arcturus know this would happen?
Anyways.
Worked all week, except last night, I went to Little Tokyo(God, I hate DTLA) for some ramen at Daikokuya. Why, I'm not sure, as there was a branch 20 miles closer, but hey, it was pretty good.
My favorite is still Shinsengumi though.
Been thinking a bit recently about life, love, and happiness. Not much came of it, except maybe a reaffirmation of the desire to move out.
In other news:
Fires sprouting around us, and the State's running out of money.
What else is new?
Sucks about Tychus, but how the hell did Arcturus know this would happen?
Anyways.
Worked all week, except last night, I went to Little Tokyo(God, I hate DTLA) for some ramen at Daikokuya. Why, I'm not sure, as there was a branch 20 miles closer, but hey, it was pretty good.
My favorite is still Shinsengumi though.
Been thinking a bit recently about life, love, and happiness. Not much came of it, except maybe a reaffirmation of the desire to move out.
In other news:
Fires sprouting around us, and the State's running out of money.
What else is new?
Saturday, July 24, 2010
What a Week!
Went bungee jumping/backpacking, just like I said I would. And it was a smashing success.
At least, I'd like to think so.
Mostly due to the inadvertent efforts of Ben and Will, two hikers that were also ditched by their friends whom I met on the trail. It was an overall good time.
At least, I'd like to think so.
Mostly due to the inadvertent efforts of Ben and Will, two hikers that were also ditched by their friends whom I met on the trail. It was an overall good time.
Splashed around the river while waiting for ankle jumps
Mostly worked the rest of the week, and for once was the last bidder to leave the auction site on Thursday afternoon.
Also looted a big stainless BBQ grill today, brought it back, and it's now sitting on the deck next to the pool.
And speaking of the pool, I got dad to agree to fix to whirlpool today. Yay!
Now to see if he'll go through with it.
In other news:
It's that time of the year again, brush fires starting up all around. Joy.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Lone Ranger
Well, the trip tomorrow is down to one participant: myself.
It's amazing how one could attempt to plan an event more than a month in advance, with 7-10 initial participants, and have them all jump ship with less than a week's notice.
I'm still going, even if I have to go by myself. Three reasons why:
One: I want to get out of this city. I want to smell the fucking fresh air and hear the fucking water flowing. I want to see the trees and the animals and feel the wind and sun on my skin.
Two: If I let this event die, it would be a failure. And failure is unacceptable. I will not let the inaction, inconvenience, and/or laziness of others to lead me to fail. If all others give up, I will move forward.
Three: I will not be a boring person. I will not sit back on a couch and watch TV all day when I can do something exciting. Never let it be said that I sat by the wayside and let life pass me by.
To me, letting this go would simple be irresponsible. How could I face myself if I were to be so weak?
But others wonder why I do not simply postpone the trip?
Let me ask you this: I gave a month's advance notice. Do you think there would be a different result if I delayed two weeks? They are who they are, and I am who I am. In the end, I can only be responsible for myself.
And to those of you working , you need not my forgiveness, for there is nothing to forgive.
Here's to hoping I make it back without incident. This .45 should help.
In other news:
Watched Inception, which was quite the mindfuck. In a good way. Watch it, highly recommended.
It's amazing how one could attempt to plan an event more than a month in advance, with 7-10 initial participants, and have them all jump ship with less than a week's notice.
I'm still going, even if I have to go by myself. Three reasons why:
One: I want to get out of this city. I want to smell the fucking fresh air and hear the fucking water flowing. I want to see the trees and the animals and feel the wind and sun on my skin.
Two: If I let this event die, it would be a failure. And failure is unacceptable. I will not let the inaction, inconvenience, and/or laziness of others to lead me to fail. If all others give up, I will move forward.
Three: I will not be a boring person. I will not sit back on a couch and watch TV all day when I can do something exciting. Never let it be said that I sat by the wayside and let life pass me by.
To me, letting this go would simple be irresponsible. How could I face myself if I were to be so weak?
But others wonder why I do not simply postpone the trip?
Let me ask you this: I gave a month's advance notice. Do you think there would be a different result if I delayed two weeks? They are who they are, and I am who I am. In the end, I can only be responsible for myself.
And to those of you working , you need not my forgiveness, for there is nothing to forgive.
Here's to hoping I make it back without incident. This .45 should help.
In other news:
Watched Inception, which was quite the mindfuck. In a good way. Watch it, highly recommended.
Monday, July 12, 2010
All's Quiet on the Western Front
Nothing much has been happening these past few days.
Went on a pilgrimage for ramen, ended up pretty disappointed.
Received a new camera from Amazon, a "Shock-Proof, Water-Proof, Dust-Proof" Panasonic DMC-TS2. Never let it be said that I don't learn from my mistakes.
Pops came home today and handed me a new Toshiba T135D, which I equate to a large netbook. Told me I'll be needing it for work. Most ominous.
Watched the World Cup. Was cheering for the Netherlands, but knew that the odds were against them. Nice Kung Fu kick, but why no red card?
More lethargic than usual. Dunno why.
I blame the weather.
Oh, and that backpacking trip next week is down to four people over two days. Five if I can pull it off.
I bought all the extra gear already too. Damn.
Went on a pilgrimage for ramen, ended up pretty disappointed.
Received a new camera from Amazon, a "Shock-Proof, Water-Proof, Dust-Proof" Panasonic DMC-TS2. Never let it be said that I don't learn from my mistakes.
Pops came home today and handed me a new Toshiba T135D, which I equate to a large netbook. Told me I'll be needing it for work. Most ominous.
Watched the World Cup. Was cheering for the Netherlands, but knew that the odds were against them. Nice Kung Fu kick, but why no red card?
More lethargic than usual. Dunno why.
I blame the weather.
Oh, and that backpacking trip next week is down to four people over two days. Five if I can pull it off.
I bought all the extra gear already too. Damn.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Motorcycle Classes
A friend of mine(Nan) wanted to get a motorcycle for the longest time, and I told him that I would take lessons with him whenever that time came. Years later, the time finally appeared, and we attended a three day, 15 hour motorcycle class at our nearby community college.
It was fun and informative, and was also $250. I guess in the long run, it should be worth it, but it's still a hefty chunk of change. I'm told it's only $150 if you're under 21, which, unfortunately, I will never be again.
I nearly failed the evaluation when the beat-up Honda Rebel I was using ran out of gas in the main tank. We were supposed to switch to reserve, but I reflexively turned it to main when I mounted.
I dunno if I'll ever get a motorcycle, but suppose I'll feel a little more accomplished when I get that "M" added next to the "C" on my driver's license.
In other news:
The 4th of July is tomorrow. And my new-found friend is leaving for Baltimore and John Hopkins. Here's to her safe flight. Also, a note to myself: watch All Saints Day with her when she gets back.
Unfortunately, I've discovered that I'll have work tomorrow. And I was planning on spending time with a certain birthday girl too...
That's adult life, I guess.
It was fun and informative, and was also $250. I guess in the long run, it should be worth it, but it's still a hefty chunk of change. I'm told it's only $150 if you're under 21, which, unfortunately, I will never be again.
I nearly failed the evaluation when the beat-up Honda Rebel I was using ran out of gas in the main tank. We were supposed to switch to reserve, but I reflexively turned it to main when I mounted.
I dunno if I'll ever get a motorcycle, but suppose I'll feel a little more accomplished when I get that "M" added next to the "C" on my driver's license.
In other news:
The 4th of July is tomorrow. And my new-found friend is leaving for Baltimore and John Hopkins. Here's to her safe flight. Also, a note to myself: watch All Saints Day with her when she gets back.
Unfortunately, I've discovered that I'll have work tomorrow. And I was planning on spending time with a certain birthday girl too...
That's adult life, I guess.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
I went to the beach and killed my camera
So yeah. I went to the beach. It was pretty much a spur of the moment thing. I was invited nearly a week before the event, but I had work.
But then I thought to myself: It's summer, and I ain't gone to the beach yet. I live in Kalifornia, and the last 3 times I've been to the beach, it was a lakeside beach. This cannot stand.
So I skived off the last few hours of work and headed for the sand, waves, and bikinis.
Unfortunately, the sand is as much a bane on beach-goers as it is an attraction. It got into my camera, and now that camera is dead.
But then I thought to myself: It's summer, and I ain't gone to the beach yet. I live in Kalifornia, and the last 3 times I've been to the beach, it was a lakeside beach. This cannot stand.
So I skived off the last few hours of work and headed for the sand, waves, and bikinis.
Unfortunately, the sand is as much a bane on beach-goers as it is an attraction. It got into my camera, and now that camera is dead.
The last picture this camera ever took.
Thanks for your year of service. Rest in Pieces.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Meet Taylor
I picked up a Citadel 1911-A1 made by Armscor in the Philippines the day after my return, but only made it to the range last Friday.
I'm loving her. The groups are tight, the expected super-smooth 1911 trigger, and the sheer point-ability of the thing make it hard to find fault with her. I would have liked better sights, but for the price($550USD), I can't complain. I'll have to see about finding a gunsmith in my area and getting some new ones. Tritium would be nice, but not really necessary.
Also pictured is the newest addition to my collection of ocarinas. I like it well enough, but it's a bit too high pitched for my ears to put up with for very long.
In other news:
Not much going on that peaks my interest at the moment. Politicians are making laws and spending money when they ought to be cutting back and repealing(in whichever order they choose), and the world keeps on turning.
I'm tired.
I'm loving her. The groups are tight, the expected super-smooth 1911 trigger, and the sheer point-ability of the thing make it hard to find fault with her. I would have liked better sights, but for the price($550USD), I can't complain. I'll have to see about finding a gunsmith in my area and getting some new ones. Tritium would be nice, but not really necessary.
Also pictured is the newest addition to my collection of ocarinas. I like it well enough, but it's a bit too high pitched for my ears to put up with for very long.
In other news:
Not much going on that peaks my interest at the moment. Politicians are making laws and spending money when they ought to be cutting back and repealing(in whichever order they choose), and the world keeps on turning.
I'm tired.
Friday, June 18, 2010
New Chair
Lakers won the NBA Finals. Was pretty exciting, but not epic.
Jumped straight to work after returning. One vacant house had a bunch of trash, but found two brand new neckties and a solid wooden chair. Purported to be a Gunlocke, age questionable, but a tag stapled on the underside states "1921" but may be a serial number. The varnish was pretty badly damaged. Searching online revealed it to be a model no longer produced.
I brought it home, sanded it down and re-stained it using CLP. That's right. CLP gun cleaner/oil. Turned out alright so far, but going to need to finish it somehow with a sealant. Paraffin wax that I use as lamp oil seems to be the readily available choice.
More on this later.
In other news:
The most epic game related post I've ever seen:
Japan's birth rate is abysmal, among the lowest in the world at around 1.21. Japan needs more babies.
Jumped straight to work after returning. One vacant house had a bunch of trash, but found two brand new neckties and a solid wooden chair. Purported to be a Gunlocke, age questionable, but a tag stapled on the underside states "1921" but may be a serial number. The varnish was pretty badly damaged. Searching online revealed it to be a model no longer produced.
I brought it home, sanded it down and re-stained it using CLP. That's right. CLP gun cleaner/oil. Turned out alright so far, but going to need to finish it somehow with a sealant. Paraffin wax that I use as lamp oil seems to be the readily available choice.
In other news:
The most epic game related post I've ever seen:
Japan's birth rate is abysmal, among the lowest in the world at around 1.21. Japan needs more babies.
Miyamoto is trying to help.
Young Japanese men often have neither the time, money or local facilities to play sports or take women on dates like bowling, tennis and the like.
...
Miyamoto creates Wii Sports.
Young men who are out of shape have a tougher time getting women to play Wii Sports with them, and don't look nearly as suave when they do.
Miyamoto puts out the Balance Board and Wii Fit.
Young, attractive, single women are still all over Japan, and Miyamoto begins to wonder if these young salarymen are hot-blooded males, or if the reason it seems like they are oblivious to the women around them is that they have become walking zombies.
Miyamoto creates the Wii Vitality Sensor.
Miyamoto realizes that there are men out there with a pulse who aren't in bad shape, and are interested in women, but simply have no social skills whatsoever when it comes to the opposite sex.
Miyamoto explains to men that women are like cats.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Last Day in Taiwan
Here I am, sitting in the MRT station to receive WiFly signal.
It's been a while, but as I said, net connections' been spotty.
Spend most of my time worrying over an essay.
Pretty hard up...well, more hard up than usual.
I'll be getting on a plane tomorrow night and headed back to LA, so hopefully my unwanted abstinence could come to an end soon.
Although I find that supremely doubtful.
What have I discovered during my trip?
That I love my family.
That mosquitoes love me.
That I am definitely heterosexual.
That I miss the smell off cordite.
That I have an additional(new) requirement to gradutate, even though I technically finished my requirements a semester ago.
That my principles and (supposedly extreme) straightforwardness may not get me any women, but it gives me more satisfaction to maintain them.
And that Mister Donut is awesome.
In other news:
I wish this would happen more often. Prefereably in locations I frequent.
I'll be picking up that Citadel 1911 when I get back.
I'll also be starting on that garage door business thing. Probably.
It's been a while, but as I said, net connections' been spotty.
Spend most of my time worrying over an essay.
Pretty hard up...well, more hard up than usual.
I'll be getting on a plane tomorrow night and headed back to LA, so hopefully my unwanted abstinence could come to an end soon.
Although I find that supremely doubtful.
What have I discovered during my trip?
That I love my family.
That mosquitoes love me.
That I am definitely heterosexual.
That I miss the smell off cordite.
That I have an additional(new) requirement to gradutate, even though I technically finished my requirements a semester ago.
That my principles and (supposedly extreme) straightforwardness may not get me any women, but it gives me more satisfaction to maintain them.
And that Mister Donut is awesome.
In other news:
I wish this would happen more often. Prefereably in locations I frequent.
I'll be picking up that Citadel 1911 when I get back.
I'll also be starting on that garage door business thing. Probably.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Hiatus, maybe?
As stated in the earlier post, I'm leaving for Taiwan tonight(technically, tomorrow morning).
My internet connection will be spotty during the trip, so I'll post even less than I'm posting now, probably.
I am slightly worried though, as the person whom I was assisting with her English essays has her final essay due next Thursday, and I may not have a chance to look it over before she turns it in. This is very not good, as there is no doubt that her professor will become suspicious over the sudden change in her writing style and the drastic decrease in her grammar skill.
I suppose it will work itself out.
Beyond that, I have the usual concerns about the house, but my armed neighbors and friends assure me they will assist me in keeping watch over it while I am away.
My next post will likely be from Taiwan.
See ya'll later!
My internet connection will be spotty during the trip, so I'll post even less than I'm posting now, probably.
I am slightly worried though, as the person whom I was assisting with her English essays has her final essay due next Thursday, and I may not have a chance to look it over before she turns it in. This is very not good, as there is no doubt that her professor will become suspicious over the sudden change in her writing style and the drastic decrease in her grammar skill.
I suppose it will work itself out.
Beyond that, I have the usual concerns about the house, but my armed neighbors and friends assure me they will assist me in keeping watch over it while I am away.
My next post will likely be from Taiwan.
See ya'll later!
Friday, May 28, 2010
Come and Gone
Life goes on. 22 doesn't feel any different from 21, though I doubt I'll be saying the same when I hit 30. If I hit 30.
Raided a condemned house. Mystery in how they got some of the stuff into the attic, as most of the furniture up there is too wide to fit through the tiny loft ladder hole-thing. Eventual, I kicked out a window and passed things down from the roof. Fun.
Found a .20 caliber air pistol, which I gave to SuburbanDweller.
Pops and I had a talk, which ended up pretty deep. Made me respect him a lot more than I did.
Beyond all that, I'm headed to Taiwan again next week. Will need to post random house check-ers again.
In other news:
Trying to find a 1911 under $800USD out the door that I like.
Not easy.
Raided a condemned house. Mystery in how they got some of the stuff into the attic, as most of the furniture up there is too wide to fit through the tiny loft ladder hole-thing. Eventual, I kicked out a window and passed things down from the roof. Fun.
Found a .20 caliber air pistol, which I gave to SuburbanDweller.
Pops and I had a talk, which ended up pretty deep. Made me respect him a lot more than I did.
Beyond all that, I'm headed to Taiwan again next week. Will need to post random house check-ers again.
In other news:
Trying to find a 1911 under $800USD out the door that I like.
Not easy.
Friday, May 21, 2010
So a lot has happened...
I'm done with school.
Theoretically, that is.
I've completed all the units I need to graduate, but I applied for graduation too late, and will have to wait an additional semester before I can put on that ridiculous hat. But it is as it is, and I'm done.
What does it mean though? I don't feel all that much different than I did yesterday, but I guess I'm supposed to become a full fledged member of society now?
I'll work it out as I go along.
Someone asked me how I felt after we finished that last final. I told them that I felt tired.
I suppose I am tired. Tired of school, of life...of work. Mental stress.
But as I sit here, I decided that it ain't so much as "tired" as it is "tired of being lonely."
Though what that means, I'm not too sure about myself.
Well, I suppose I should go to sleep. Wake up bright and early tomorrow for work.
Need to become respectable and all that jazz.
May as well start now.
In other news:
The ending to Red Dead Redemption is super lame. And I still can't figure out how to disarm someone during a duel. I know how to do it in theory, but it doesn't quite work out.
And I got that Recon Tanto, but more on it later after I field test it.
Theoretically, that is.
I've completed all the units I need to graduate, but I applied for graduation too late, and will have to wait an additional semester before I can put on that ridiculous hat. But it is as it is, and I'm done.
What does it mean though? I don't feel all that much different than I did yesterday, but I guess I'm supposed to become a full fledged member of society now?
I'll work it out as I go along.
Someone asked me how I felt after we finished that last final. I told them that I felt tired.
I suppose I am tired. Tired of school, of life...of work. Mental stress.
But as I sit here, I decided that it ain't so much as "tired" as it is "tired of being lonely."
Though what that means, I'm not too sure about myself.
Well, I suppose I should go to sleep. Wake up bright and early tomorrow for work.
Need to become respectable and all that jazz.
May as well start now.
In other news:
The ending to Red Dead Redemption is super lame. And I still can't figure out how to disarm someone during a duel. I know how to do it in theory, but it doesn't quite work out.
And I got that Recon Tanto, but more on it later after I field test it.
Monday, May 17, 2010
My Brithday Wish
For my upcoming birthday, I've been asked by a few people as to what I want for said birthday.
And after some thought, I've decided that I'd like to go back to the woods for a day or two. Backpacking, dayhike, fishing...whatever.
Though I wouldn't say no to a box of bullets(any caliber will do, shotgun shells, even) or a Cold Steel Recon Tanto(Which I will probably purchase for myself soon).
Yep.
Still busy with end of semester crap, and work ain't easing up any.
Longer posts will have to wait till I have more time to write them.
And after some thought, I've decided that I'd like to go back to the woods for a day or two. Backpacking, dayhike, fishing...whatever.
Though I wouldn't say no to a box of bullets(any caliber will do, shotgun shells, even) or a Cold Steel Recon Tanto(Which I will probably purchase for myself soon).
Yep.
Still busy with end of semester crap, and work ain't easing up any.
Longer posts will have to wait till I have more time to write them.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Final Day of Instruction
I just finished my last class of the semester. I'm officially done with school. The only thing left is Finals' Week.
It's been busy the last week. Capstone courses all had their own projects and papers due, on top of work and several games of Homeworld 2(still super awesome despite its age, incredibly so).
Tomorrow, I'm going to watch Gladiator 2, or as they call it, Robin Hood.
I'll post again tomorrow or Saturday. Too tired for anything serious.
And I hope to the God(s) out there that they don't ban open carry in Kalifornia. Conceal carry is already hard enough to get(and freaking impossible if you're in LA).
Actually, it's pretty discriminatory. I wonder if we can make a case of it?
It's been busy the last week. Capstone courses all had their own projects and papers due, on top of work and several games of Homeworld 2(still super awesome despite its age, incredibly so).
Tomorrow, I'm going to watch Gladiator 2, or as they call it, Robin Hood.
I'll post again tomorrow or Saturday. Too tired for anything serious.
And I hope to the God(s) out there that they don't ban open carry in Kalifornia. Conceal carry is already hard enough to get(and freaking impossible if you're in LA).
Actually, it's pretty discriminatory. I wonder if we can make a case of it?
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Guilty Concience
So I got home from school a few hours ago, to find my mother in a mood.
An Incident during her lunch has resulted me pulling Triela out of the safe and bringing her to Condition 3, leaning her next to the bed. She shall remain so for the next two weeks, even after I change and/or re-key all the external locks in the house.
Dammit.
An Incident during her lunch has resulted me pulling Triela out of the safe and bringing her to Condition 3, leaning her next to the bed. She shall remain so for the next two weeks, even after I change and/or re-key all the external locks in the house.
Dammit.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
As I approach The End...
Finals are coming, as is Summer. Haven't yet decided what to do, though I will definitely return to Taiwan. Beyond that, maybe a trip to Alaska, or Holland, or both, depending on how various friend's schedules work out.
For now, my immediate obstacle is labeled "Finals Week." And forget not that various final papers and projects that go with it.
This really is just a short post to remind me to keep this blog alive, but I find it necessary nonetheless.
In other news:
It's odd that I find very little in the mainstream media about the 2010 May Day violence. Especially since I saw some of it for myself. But here's a link for the uninformed. Be sure to watch the video. Before you dismiss it as ludicrous and pure Anti-Illegal Immigrant propaganda, I've actually seen one of those Pro-Revolucion fliers.
And to bring up an interesting thought: When there is a group of illegal aliens in one country supporting overthrow of that country's government through revolution, violent or otherwise, isn't that technically a war? I mean, invading soldiers are technically illegal aliens, are they not?
And before you call me some kind of bigot/racist:
A: I am a hyphenated American.
B: I work with illegal Mexicans all the damn time, but they pay taxes. (Seriously, they do. They also make an attempt to learn English.)
C: I understand the need for cheap labor, but I refuse to take the crime that goes with it. Immigration reform is needed, but general amnesty for a single color I cannot abide, especially since I know so many who have been waiting patiently through the legal process, yet will not benefit before those who hopped a fence.
Oh, and Iron Man 2 is being released this Friday. I'm going to watch it with some friends at 0001hrs. Joy.
For now, my immediate obstacle is labeled "Finals Week." And forget not that various final papers and projects that go with it.
This really is just a short post to remind me to keep this blog alive, but I find it necessary nonetheless.
In other news:
It's odd that I find very little in the mainstream media about the 2010 May Day violence. Especially since I saw some of it for myself. But here's a link for the uninformed. Be sure to watch the video. Before you dismiss it as ludicrous and pure Anti-Illegal Immigrant propaganda, I've actually seen one of those Pro-Revolucion fliers.
And to bring up an interesting thought: When there is a group of illegal aliens in one country supporting overthrow of that country's government through revolution, violent or otherwise, isn't that technically a war? I mean, invading soldiers are technically illegal aliens, are they not?
And before you call me some kind of bigot/racist:
A: I am a hyphenated American.
B: I work with illegal Mexicans all the damn time, but they pay taxes. (Seriously, they do. They also make an attempt to learn English.)
C: I understand the need for cheap labor, but I refuse to take the crime that goes with it. Immigration reform is needed, but general amnesty for a single color I cannot abide, especially since I know so many who have been waiting patiently through the legal process, yet will not benefit before those who hopped a fence.
Oh, and Iron Man 2 is being released this Friday. I'm going to watch it with some friends at 0001hrs. Joy.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Life and Adventure
Adventure.
I use this word a lot, as many people can attest. But I'm not sure they know what I mean when I use it. So I'm going to define it for ya'll.
------------------
Adventure is experiencing life. It's excitement, discovery, and learning.
Adventure is something beyond the routine. Something to break up the monotony of life. It might not be fun. In fact, it could suck. It could end badly. You might die from it. Then again, it could be fun. It could be the time of your life. You could discover things you never knew about, and understand things you knew so little of.
Adventure could be as simple as a walk around the neighborhood, or as complex as a trip overseas. It could be as contrived as a drive to Target, or as exciting as skydiving.
Adventure is living life to the fullest. If someone offers you an opportunity to so something new, you take it. If you find yourself with the chance to do something different, you jump right on it. And you don't even need to go very far to do it.
Hell, you could have an adventure without leaving the house! (though that kind of adventure is best kept private.)
However, adventure is about more than just experiencing life. It's hardship, struggle, and pain.
Adventure is what makes you a man(or woman). It's the fight to move past entitlement, and into self-reliance. It's moving past the sheep-ple mentality, raising your head, and taking a long, objective look around you.
It's realizing that you have only one life. Understanding that you have but one chance to do it right.
And doing it right.
I use this word a lot, as many people can attest. But I'm not sure they know what I mean when I use it. So I'm going to define it for ya'll.
------------------
Adventure is experiencing life. It's excitement, discovery, and learning.
Adventure is something beyond the routine. Something to break up the monotony of life. It might not be fun. In fact, it could suck. It could end badly. You might die from it. Then again, it could be fun. It could be the time of your life. You could discover things you never knew about, and understand things you knew so little of.
Adventure could be as simple as a walk around the neighborhood, or as complex as a trip overseas. It could be as contrived as a drive to Target, or as exciting as skydiving.
Adventure is living life to the fullest. If someone offers you an opportunity to so something new, you take it. If you find yourself with the chance to do something different, you jump right on it. And you don't even need to go very far to do it.
Hell, you could have an adventure without leaving the house! (though that kind of adventure is best kept private.)
However, adventure is about more than just experiencing life. It's hardship, struggle, and pain.
Adventure is what makes you a man(or woman). It's the fight to move past entitlement, and into self-reliance. It's moving past the sheep-ple mentality, raising your head, and taking a long, objective look around you.
It's realizing that you have only one life. Understanding that you have but one chance to do it right.
And doing it right.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Girl stuck in splits
This is why you don't do the splits without someone at home.
And because I broke my last remaining tension wrench yesterday, I couldn't even pick the door. Luckily, the balcony door latch gave in after a couple upward shoves.
Ninja Edit: The video has been removed after girl threatened to sue. So if you really want to see it, you're going to have to come over.
So that's what I did today.
In other news:
I need more lock picks. And a plug spinner.
And because I broke my last remaining tension wrench yesterday, I couldn't even pick the door. Luckily, the balcony door latch gave in after a couple upward shoves.
Ninja Edit: The video has been removed after girl threatened to sue. So if you really want to see it, you're going to have to come over.
So that's what I did today.
In other news:
I need more lock picks. And a plug spinner.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Kick-Ass
It seems like my prediction was right, as per Photo Summary 002. More essays in the works. This one took from 1700hrs to 2300hrs.
But enough about that.
Saturday was an exciting day.
In the morning I went with SuburbanDweller to pick up his birthday present from, a new(well, not new, considering the thing is over 50 years old) SKS. It's a Norinco with all matching parts.
In the afternoon, we went to explore a new trail I ran across while driving to a construction site.
At night, I went to watch Kick-Ass. Kick ass. Really. For a superhero(well, not super) movie with such silly costumes, it was awesome.
This morning I installed a garage door, though not by myself. It doesn't seem to be all that hard, but still took about 4 hours. I'm sure there's still much more I don't understand, but time will fix that problem.
In other news:
The new KFC Double Down is awesome. It wasn't near as greasy/oily as I thought it would be, though it was much more expensive than I had expected.
No serious news I care about enough to write about.
But enough about that.
Saturday was an exciting day.
In the morning I went with SuburbanDweller to pick up his birthday present from, a new(well, not new, considering the thing is over 50 years old) SKS. It's a Norinco with all matching parts.
In the afternoon, we went to explore a new trail I ran across while driving to a construction site.
At night, I went to watch Kick-Ass. Kick ass. Really. For a superhero(well, not super) movie with such silly costumes, it was awesome.
This morning I installed a garage door, though not by myself. It doesn't seem to be all that hard, but still took about 4 hours. I'm sure there's still much more I don't understand, but time will fix that problem.
In other news:
The new KFC Double Down is awesome. It wasn't near as greasy/oily as I thought it would be, though it was much more expensive than I had expected.
No serious news I care about enough to write about.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
New Business
Life will be getting busier, it seems. Scattered between the usual confidence-crushing lectures and rants on my uselessness, Father has revealed that we will be starting a new business venture. In order to reduce the time I spend on frivolous activities(these include guns, exercise, backpacking, and, ironically, school), I have been asked(read: You're going to do this, and you're going to like it. Or you won't, but you're going to do it anyway.) to take part in our family's partnership with a new friend, a garage door installation and repair technician.
And if you haven't guessed it, this means that I will be spending the majority of what free time I still have(had) accompanying my new friend on his job, learning the trade.
I'll keep ya'll posted on this.
In other news
I've picked up a new Ruger Mk. III Hunter in stainless steel.
She looks kinda like this:
And if you haven't guessed it, this means that I will be spending the majority of what free time I still have(had) accompanying my new friend on his job, learning the trade.
I'll keep ya'll posted on this.
In other news
I've picked up a new Ruger Mk. III Hunter in stainless steel.
She looks kinda like this:
I've named her Jean
Jean has the most ridiculously complicated reassembly process I've ever had the misfortune to encounter. But after almost 2 hours of fiddling, I figured it out.
Also, this week, the soundtrack for the PlayStationNetwork game FLOWER was released on PSN. If you have a PS3, and you don't have FLOWER...GO DOWNLOAD IT RIGHT NOW! Here's a trailer, just to further convince you.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Itch
So I've got this itch.
No it's not a bug bite or anything. I've had it before; it's reoccurring.
And NO, it's not herpes or something equally disturbing.
It's an itch to get out of the freaking city and back into the wood. It's an itch that can only scratched with the tree bark(tree still attached) of an old oak, or by the sound of the river rushing by at night.
And you know I got it when I start staring at bushcraft gear for hours on the net.
I really want a small(2-3 inch blade length) scandi grind knife piggybacked to a larger(5-7 inch blade length) scandi grind chopper, complete with firesteel loop and sharpening stone pouch. All leather sheath.
A WoodBear or a Bark River set would be nice.
The sheath will need to be a custom job, unfortunately. And since the IRS literally left me with $3USD in my account, I won't have the moolah to place any kind of order in for several weeks, if not months.
As I have seen someone say/write:
Le Sigh.
In other news:
This is what happens when you run about doing unnecessary things. The US may not have had the best policy before, but it was a clear one. Nuclear, Biological, or Chemical, it didn't matter which one was used, the US considered them all equal as Weapons of Mass Destruction, and would retaliate in kind with WMDs. Being who we are, that meant Nuclear, since our stocks of Biological or Chemical weapons are not large nor readily deploy-able.
Classic example of "if it ain't broke, don't fix it."
Oh, and the Greece Bailout may actually happen.
And this is why I neither have a credit card, nor play Farmville.
No it's not a bug bite or anything. I've had it before; it's reoccurring.
And NO, it's not herpes or something equally disturbing.
It's an itch to get out of the freaking city and back into the wood. It's an itch that can only scratched with the tree bark(tree still attached) of an old oak, or by the sound of the river rushing by at night.
And you know I got it when I start staring at bushcraft gear for hours on the net.
I really want a small(2-3 inch blade length) scandi grind knife piggybacked to a larger(5-7 inch blade length) scandi grind chopper, complete with firesteel loop and sharpening stone pouch. All leather sheath.
A WoodBear or a Bark River set would be nice.
The sheath will need to be a custom job, unfortunately. And since the IRS literally left me with $3USD in my account, I won't have the moolah to place any kind of order in for several weeks, if not months.
As I have seen someone say/write:
Le Sigh.
In other news:
This is what happens when you run about doing unnecessary things. The US may not have had the best policy before, but it was a clear one. Nuclear, Biological, or Chemical, it didn't matter which one was used, the US considered them all equal as Weapons of Mass Destruction, and would retaliate in kind with WMDs. Being who we are, that meant Nuclear, since our stocks of Biological or Chemical weapons are not large nor readily deploy-able.
Classic example of "if it ain't broke, don't fix it."
Oh, and the Greece Bailout may actually happen.
And this is why I neither have a credit card, nor play Farmville.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Last Spring Break of My Life
WARNING: SELF-PITY POST, but read the news below.
Thus it ends. I shall never have another Spring Break again.
I find it disappointing that I essentially worked through every Spring Break I've had in college. This previous week was no different. The only day(night) of leisure I had was a few rounds of beer pong with a few of my equally girl-less friends in a garage, whining about how girl-less we were. And that will be the best spring break memory I'll ever have.
I have not visited either of two Meccas of Spring Break (Cancun and Las Vegas), nor have I spent my recess anywhere else for the sake of leisure. I fear that this will become the pattern of my life, never going out and letting loose, even if given the opportunity. I fear that my mindset will prevent me from enjoying this life to its fullest, always calculating, always thinking, always measuring my options.
Even during sex, I'm planning out my day tomorrow. How sad is that?
In other news:
Can't this guy do anything right?! Saying that we won't use nukes in retaliation for chem or bio-warfare is like saying, well..."Why don't you guys attack us with chem or bio weapons? We won't shoot back, Scout's honor!" The US doesn't have the stockpiles of chem and bio weapons to retaliate against a large scale attack from said weapons. What we do have is nukes, and now we can't use them?!
Hell, what if some city/town gets attacked through bio-weps, and everyone's dead, but we need to sterilize the place. The only thing to do it with is a nuke(at least to do it thoroughly), but hey, no we can't use those. We're going to need the guys in moonsuits and flamethrowers to walk on in and burn everything, and hope we kill all the germs.
Oh, and you know that the US has gone to the pits when the Russians lecture us about capitalism, and we can't refute it.
Thus it ends. I shall never have another Spring Break again.
I find it disappointing that I essentially worked through every Spring Break I've had in college. This previous week was no different. The only day(night) of leisure I had was a few rounds of beer pong with a few of my equally girl-less friends in a garage, whining about how girl-less we were. And that will be the best spring break memory I'll ever have.
I have not visited either of two Meccas of Spring Break (Cancun and Las Vegas), nor have I spent my recess anywhere else for the sake of leisure. I fear that this will become the pattern of my life, never going out and letting loose, even if given the opportunity. I fear that my mindset will prevent me from enjoying this life to its fullest, always calculating, always thinking, always measuring my options.
Even during sex, I'm planning out my day tomorrow. How sad is that?
In other news:
Can't this guy do anything right?! Saying that we won't use nukes in retaliation for chem or bio-warfare is like saying, well..."Why don't you guys attack us with chem or bio weapons? We won't shoot back, Scout's honor!" The US doesn't have the stockpiles of chem and bio weapons to retaliate against a large scale attack from said weapons. What we do have is nukes, and now we can't use them?!
Hell, what if some city/town gets attacked through bio-weps, and everyone's dead, but we need to sterilize the place. The only thing to do it with is a nuke(at least to do it thoroughly), but hey, no we can't use those. We're going to need the guys in moonsuits and flamethrowers to walk on in and burn everything, and hope we kill all the germs.
Oh, and you know that the US has gone to the pits when the Russians lecture us about capitalism, and we can't refute it.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
April Fools'
I've never much liked this day. It confuses the crap out of me. IMs from confused people lead to further confusion. So many plausible things supposedly happen, then are refuted.
Stop this nonsense!
In other news:
Spring Break has become a 50hr+ work week. Joy.
Will probably be going to Steamers tomorrow with SuburbanDweller.
Stop this nonsense!
In other news:
Spring Break has become a 50hr+ work week. Joy.
Will probably be going to Steamers tomorrow with SuburbanDweller.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Plans Shot
Well.
This week I was supposed to be playing tour guide to a visiting friend from Missouri. That plan quickly went down the pipe when she missed her flight here.
How did she miss her flight?
She overslept after partying too hard.
Some of you might believe that reasonable, but consider this.
Her flight took off at 1800hrs, and when she woke it, it was 1900hrs. This happened despite the fact that I've been calling her all day long(and I realize now why she never picked up the phone.)
My faith in the female gender has taken a new hit. Punctuality indeed.
In other news:
Spring has come again! And with that, green grass and spring showers! Am currently saving money to purchase a 1911, even though I know .45ACP costs are going to kick my ass. I've been eying the Springfield Operators, but may end up with another brand. It'll be a graduation/birthday gift to myself.
This week I was supposed to be playing tour guide to a visiting friend from Missouri. That plan quickly went down the pipe when she missed her flight here.
How did she miss her flight?
She overslept after partying too hard.
Some of you might believe that reasonable, but consider this.
Her flight took off at 1800hrs, and when she woke it, it was 1900hrs. This happened despite the fact that I've been calling her all day long(and I realize now why she never picked up the phone.)
My faith in the female gender has taken a new hit. Punctuality indeed.
In other news:
Spring has come again! And with that, green grass and spring showers! Am currently saving money to purchase a 1911, even though I know .45ACP costs are going to kick my ass. I've been eying the Springfield Operators, but may end up with another brand. It'll be a graduation/birthday gift to myself.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Quiet Thoughts on the Future
My, how quickly time flies.
I've had a lot of thoughts running through my head these past few days, mostly about what I'm going to do after I'm done with school. To appease my parents(just my mother, really), I will need to attend grad school, but business schools do not usually accept students right out of college, so it will be a couple years. But what am I to do with myself in the meantime?
The question is somewhat rhetorical, as I know what I want to do, but those are all leisure activities. I should focus more on my career and establishing my foundation on which I will build and survive on for the rest of my life. As I am now, I feel like I am floating around aimlessly, without a future figured out(though I'm pretty sure that the family business will figure something for me).
I need an anchor of some kind. Something for me to push off of. What, though?
Soul searching has yielded little, but I feel like it's going to be one of those things that will sort itself out, or won't really matter practically speaking.
As I stand now, I have but one long term objective, that must be reached and maintained at any cost: that me and mine will live peaceful, happy lives.
In other news:
Obamacare passed. To the one idiot on my Facebook wall who actually cheered its passage: You liberal-media fed ignoramus. Go read the goddamn bill and stop cheering the danger you don't even understand. Then go read on all the constitutional processes and procedures it ignored and/or perverted to get passed. Go read all the bribery and backroom deals(with our money, might I add) the Democrats had to cut to get this passed. If the current Democratic Congress continues to use these procedures to pass legislation, we may as well hack off an arm to go with the two legs their bullshit has already cost us. You cheer for a bigger government, when we can't afford the one we have now.
Fiscal responsibility, transparency, bipartisanship...I would laugh, if it weren't so serious how screwed we are.
But not all hope is lost. We can still repeal, and a multi-state lawsuit is being filed against it, arguing it unconstitutional.
I've had a lot of thoughts running through my head these past few days, mostly about what I'm going to do after I'm done with school. To appease my parents(just my mother, really), I will need to attend grad school, but business schools do not usually accept students right out of college, so it will be a couple years. But what am I to do with myself in the meantime?
The question is somewhat rhetorical, as I know what I want to do, but those are all leisure activities. I should focus more on my career and establishing my foundation on which I will build and survive on for the rest of my life. As I am now, I feel like I am floating around aimlessly, without a future figured out(though I'm pretty sure that the family business will figure something for me).
I need an anchor of some kind. Something for me to push off of. What, though?
Soul searching has yielded little, but I feel like it's going to be one of those things that will sort itself out, or won't really matter practically speaking.
As I stand now, I have but one long term objective, that must be reached and maintained at any cost: that me and mine will live peaceful, happy lives.
In other news:
Obamacare passed. To the one idiot on my Facebook wall who actually cheered its passage: You liberal-media fed ignoramus. Go read the goddamn bill and stop cheering the danger you don't even understand. Then go read on all the constitutional processes and procedures it ignored and/or perverted to get passed. Go read all the bribery and backroom deals(with our money, might I add) the Democrats had to cut to get this passed. If the current Democratic Congress continues to use these procedures to pass legislation, we may as well hack off an arm to go with the two legs their bullshit has already cost us. You cheer for a bigger government, when we can't afford the one we have now.
Fiscal responsibility, transparency, bipartisanship...I would laugh, if it weren't so serious how screwed we are.
But not all hope is lost. We can still repeal, and a multi-state lawsuit is being filed against it, arguing it unconstitutional.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
New Ride + Photo Summary 03 Weekend Edition
So lots of things have happened since Friday.
First of all, I got a new truck, a new Toyota Tacoma regular cab in "Magnetic(?) Gray Metallic." It was literally the cheapest Tacoma I could get that wasn't a stick.
I was driving with dear ol' Dad down the 10 Freeway when we went passed by the Longo Toyota sign. I said to him:
Me: I oughta get a truck.
Dad: You should. We need one.
Me: I oughta pull over right now and get one.
Dad: Why not?
Me: ....Okay then. *exits freeway*
We walked in and literally told the salesman to give us the cheapest automatic transmission Tacoma they had, and chose a color. Then we tried to figure out how we were going to pay for the thing. Scraping together all the cash we had on hand, we realized we could put down about half without having to run to the bank to get more(we didn't bring checkbooks). Then Dad asked about financing, and realized that
Dad: Hey, son. You don't have any credit.
Me: No sh*t. You realize I never got a credit card.
Dad: Why not?
Me: *blank stare*
Dad: Oh. Right. Well, you should apply for one now. But I'll cosign on the truck.
Me: Gee. Thanks Dad.
You see, I was raised never to spend any money that I didn't have. But because I didn't have a credit card, I didn't have a credit history, and that means I didn't have any credit. Not bad credit. NO credit.
And if I wanted to finance the truck by myself, I'd have to pay interest at about 20%. *uck that sh*t. I'd rather just pay in full then and there, but apparently, having the truck financed would help me build up a credit history on my non-existent credit, so Dad was adamant on my financing the thing.
Ugh.
So we cosigned on the truck and went home, where I promptly got online and applied for a credit card.
But my weekend consisted of much more than that!
All in all, a satisfyingly eventful weekend.
In other news:
Command & Conquer 4: I've been playing this RTS series for as long as I remember. It was the first computer game I ever bought, at the tender age of 7. And how it has fallen.
In short, C&C4 sucks. Hard. In a misguided attempt to leave basebuilding behind and rush straight into the action, C&C has lost something. Something crucial to making the game fun. Instead, we have to lug our bases around with us, and boy, it is clumsy as all get out. It makes the game sluggish and slow, and definitely not Command & Conquer. Oh, and the constant online server connection thing? I thought that would be the thing I hate most about the game, but it has since been relegated to a mere annoyance.
First of all, I got a new truck, a new Toyota Tacoma regular cab in "Magnetic(?) Gray Metallic." It was literally the cheapest Tacoma I could get that wasn't a stick.
Looks like this, haven't named her yet.
I was driving with dear ol' Dad down the 10 Freeway when we went passed by the Longo Toyota sign. I said to him:
Me: I oughta get a truck.
Dad: You should. We need one.
Me: I oughta pull over right now and get one.
Dad: Why not?
Me: ....Okay then. *exits freeway*
We walked in and literally told the salesman to give us the cheapest automatic transmission Tacoma they had, and chose a color. Then we tried to figure out how we were going to pay for the thing. Scraping together all the cash we had on hand, we realized we could put down about half without having to run to the bank to get more(we didn't bring checkbooks). Then Dad asked about financing, and realized that
Dad: Hey, son. You don't have any credit.
Me: No sh*t. You realize I never got a credit card.
Dad: Why not?
Me: *blank stare*
Dad: Oh. Right. Well, you should apply for one now. But I'll cosign on the truck.
Me: Gee. Thanks Dad.
You see, I was raised never to spend any money that I didn't have. But because I didn't have a credit card, I didn't have a credit history, and that means I didn't have any credit. Not bad credit. NO credit.
And if I wanted to finance the truck by myself, I'd have to pay interest at about 20%. *uck that sh*t. I'd rather just pay in full then and there, but apparently, having the truck financed would help me build up a credit history on my non-existent credit, so Dad was adamant on my financing the thing.
Ugh.
So we cosigned on the truck and went home, where I promptly got online and applied for a credit card.
But my weekend consisted of much more than that!
Attended a birthday celebration!
Got these awesome strawberry donuts from Donut Man in Glendora(googlemaps)
Found hidden scenic point over Puddingstone Lake, brought SuburbanDweller and Phamtom
Swung on a rope, as SuburbanDweller demonstrates
All in all, a satisfyingly eventful weekend.
In other news:
Command & Conquer 4: I've been playing this RTS series for as long as I remember. It was the first computer game I ever bought, at the tender age of 7. And how it has fallen.
In short, C&C4 sucks. Hard. In a misguided attempt to leave basebuilding behind and rush straight into the action, C&C has lost something. Something crucial to making the game fun. Instead, we have to lug our bases around with us, and boy, it is clumsy as all get out. It makes the game sluggish and slow, and definitely not Command & Conquer. Oh, and the constant online server connection thing? I thought that would be the thing I hate most about the game, but it has since been relegated to a mere annoyance.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Photo Summary 002
Here's a summary of what I've done (other than work) these past few days.
My friends and I decided to have a impromptu BBQ. Here's Phamtom washing the grill we looted from my work just that morning.
I helped someone with their English essays, most certainly not out of the (non-existent) goodness of my heart, though I'm not sure what will come out of it. Probably more essays, as the trend is going.
Here's some ducks in the school fountain. They've been there for a couple days now. Wonder what they've been eating? (probably sandwich bread the students feed them)
Saw this girl (isn't that the cutest petulant face you ever saw) break a door key at the local GameStop. It got stuck between the safe door, we had to wait 10 minutes overtime for the safe lockout. And the key came out broken, so it was a wasted 10 minutes.
Took some pictures of this girl with her gun. BTW, that gun is the black-framed SKB 600 I compared Petra to (see post: Beauty in...). You can see me in the mirror. Look at that smile! Haven't had a girl smile so widely around me in quite some time.
In other news:
I'm tired of hearing about Toyota(because I'd rather hear about when GM is going to pay back our money), because every time I hear about some "uncontrollable acceleration" issue, I react in my mind exactly like this man. It's common sense, people. And not the "common sense" from "common sense gun control," but the real one.
Also, the Dems actually did it. They're pulling reconciliation on 1/6th of the US economy. Wonderful news, isn't it?
That's a lie. It's terrible news. I'm going to Costa Rica if(actually, it's getting scarily close to when) it passes.
Oh, and you know how mothers have long memories? Well, fanatics do too.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Too many...or too few?
So a bunch of the blogs I follow have picked up on this story. For realsies.
WTF is the Department of Education going to do with only 27 shotguns(note: the model shotgun they want is actually the exact one I have, with the same modifications I made. The only difference is the ones they want have a 4.5in shorter barrel and a permanent choke.).
Either this is a test batch and have a follow up order for several thousand shotguns, or they shouldn't have them at all. However, I doubt they're going to used for the purpose I envision, and this is just some kind of typical bureaucratic screw up. What are twenty-seven short-barreled boomsticks going to do anyway?
In other news:
Final Fantasy XIII. I've only played 3/13 chapters, but I will say this:
Awesome as expected. Words cannot describe how beautiful it is, and I truly believe it pushes the PS3 graphics hardware to the max. The battle system is nowhere near as annoying as XII was, and the music is appropriately well matched and a pleasure to listen to.
HOWEVER, the characters suck. Really. And for many reasons. First of all, the world is well written, so far as I've seen, and the plot seems alright, for the moment. But the characters are illogical and irrational, almost seeming schizophrenic at times with the speed at which they shift moods. And do I ever wish they had Japanese voiceover included in the PS3 versions, seeing as they could have fit the game in twice over within the available space on a Blu-Ray disc.
Not to say that the English dubbing is bad. It's certainly better than I expected, except for Vanille. Her Queen's English accent and high pitched voice kills the good thoughts I might have had for all the other voice actors. And Hope's interactions with her seem awkward and disjointed, with long pauses and weird movements. I'm sure timings wouldn't be as bad with Japanese dub, but apparently, they modified facial and lip movements in the US version to follow the English dub, so the Japanese dub wasn't included "because it might look weird."
More to come on this later as I move forward in the game.
WTF is the Department of Education going to do with only 27 shotguns(note: the model shotgun they want is actually the exact one I have, with the same modifications I made. The only difference is the ones they want have a 4.5in shorter barrel and a permanent choke.).
Either this is a test batch and have a follow up order for several thousand shotguns, or they shouldn't have them at all. However, I doubt they're going to used for the purpose I envision, and this is just some kind of typical bureaucratic screw up. What are twenty-seven short-barreled boomsticks going to do anyway?
In other news:
Final Fantasy XIII. I've only played 3/13 chapters, but I will say this:
Awesome as expected. Words cannot describe how beautiful it is, and I truly believe it pushes the PS3 graphics hardware to the max. The battle system is nowhere near as annoying as XII was, and the music is appropriately well matched and a pleasure to listen to.
HOWEVER, the characters suck. Really. And for many reasons. First of all, the world is well written, so far as I've seen, and the plot seems alright, for the moment. But the characters are illogical and irrational, almost seeming schizophrenic at times with the speed at which they shift moods. And do I ever wish they had Japanese voiceover included in the PS3 versions, seeing as they could have fit the game in twice over within the available space on a Blu-Ray disc.
Not to say that the English dubbing is bad. It's certainly better than I expected, except for Vanille. Her Queen's English accent and high pitched voice kills the good thoughts I might have had for all the other voice actors. And Hope's interactions with her seem awkward and disjointed, with long pauses and weird movements. I'm sure timings wouldn't be as bad with Japanese dub, but apparently, they modified facial and lip movements in the US version to follow the English dub, so the Japanese dub wasn't included "because it might look weird."
More to come on this later as I move forward in the game.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Room on "Safe"
To those that know me well, or even those who have simply known me long enough, my room is, if not comfortable, at least acceptable in their eyes. However, to those who know neither me nor the intricacies of my domicile, my room is, and I quote, "a deathtrap."
I suppose that was an overreaction, but I will agree that it is somewhat intimidating, what with all types of "dangerous" and purposefully lethal objects lying around. In the past, this did not bother me so much, as my friends were alright with it, and those so easily intimidated, I probably would not have stayed friends with them for very long.
In fact, more than once have I used my room for the very purpose of scaring someone off. In the past, I've had several girls(as opposed to the more mentally mature women) who believed that I was "the one" for them, to lead them to a bright land of easy living and constant vacations(The family is anything but poor, and I do very little to hide that fact).
I'd take her back home, let the pops grill her for a while, then show the toasty remains to my room. They're happy enough to leave my be after that. At times, this has backfired on me, as I would sometimes "lose contact" with someone who I actually liked after they encounter my living quarters, but over all, the system has worked quite well.
No longer.
The situation has changed. I am almost done with school, and after seeing what the dating pool is like outside of college(FYI: terrible to non-existent), I find myself in somewhat of a rush to build connections and networks that may hopefully lead to some good opportunities.
All the obviously dangerous things are no longer in open view. Most are behind lock and key. I'm quickly bringing the condition of the room towards what I believe to be majority normality for someone of my age and status. Hopefully, this will, if not make me more appealing, at least make me less intimidating.
I won't be left picking at the scraps.
In other news:
Reafferimation of one reason why I'm not religious. Who wants to be involved in that kind of thing?
And The Hurt Locker beat out Avatar for Best Picture, and pretty much everything else. Awesome, especially since the directors of the two movies are exes. Rivalry?
I suppose that was an overreaction, but I will agree that it is somewhat intimidating, what with all types of "dangerous" and purposefully lethal objects lying around. In the past, this did not bother me so much, as my friends were alright with it, and those so easily intimidated, I probably would not have stayed friends with them for very long.
In fact, more than once have I used my room for the very purpose of scaring someone off. In the past, I've had several girls(as opposed to the more mentally mature women) who believed that I was "the one" for them, to lead them to a bright land of easy living and constant vacations(The family is anything but poor, and I do very little to hide that fact).
I'd take her back home, let the pops grill her for a while, then show the toasty remains to my room. They're happy enough to leave my be after that. At times, this has backfired on me, as I would sometimes "lose contact" with someone who I actually liked after they encounter my living quarters, but over all, the system has worked quite well.
No longer.
The situation has changed. I am almost done with school, and after seeing what the dating pool is like outside of college(FYI: terrible to non-existent), I find myself in somewhat of a rush to build connections and networks that may hopefully lead to some good opportunities.
All the obviously dangerous things are no longer in open view. Most are behind lock and key. I'm quickly bringing the condition of the room towards what I believe to be majority normality for someone of my age and status. Hopefully, this will, if not make me more appealing, at least make me less intimidating.
I won't be left picking at the scraps.
In other news:
Reafferimation of one reason why I'm not religious. Who wants to be involved in that kind of thing?
And The Hurt Locker beat out Avatar for Best Picture, and pretty much everything else. Awesome, especially since the directors of the two movies are exes. Rivalry?
Friday, March 5, 2010
Beauty in...
Today, I had a pick-up.
Meet Petra, a 12 gauge SKB Model 600, made more than 40 years ago.
Beautiful
Plate Silver, Engraved
Full choke on top, Modified choke on the bottom.
What could be more beautiful?
Except maybe her three sisters?
Meet Flopsy, Mopsy, and Cottontail!
Matching engravings.
These four came as a set, apparently, the family that had them on consignment had a grandfather who presented one of these guns to each of his sons on every birthday from ages 12-16, in gauges .410, 28, 20, and 12. Well, some how or another, the guns ended up at Ivory Beads, where I found them about forty years later.
And for the record.
Petra: 12ga
Cottontail: 20ga
Mopsy: 28ga
Flopsy: .410ga
Oh, and again for the record:
This is what a recent year SKB 600 looks like next to a 40 year old one.
Looks about the same, actually.
In other news:
So it is finally confirmed that an asteroid did kill off the dinosaurs. Coincidentally, a friend of mine posted this webcomic on Facebook yesterday.
Also, I want to watch Alice in Wonderland, but in 3D. I'll likely have to go on a weekday afternoon, seeing as most of my friends will have watched it tonight, in 2D, in very front row seats. I would have joined them, until I realized that A) there's a 3D version, and B) the up-front seats give me headaches.
Speaking of headaches, I found the chance to start and finish Uncharted 2: Among Thieves the other evening. That, too, gave me a headache. Maybe it's just me getting old?
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Use Your Friends
People who know me well often hear me say:
"What good are friends if you don't use them?"
Some choose to interpret this statement literally, but that is not always the case. You're using your friends even when you're just hanging out with them, seeking companionship, so to speak.
Today, I used my friends.
For hard labor.
I love you guys! *teehee*(figuratively)
Related: I got that gun safe.
In other news:
"What good are friends if you don't use them?"
Some choose to interpret this statement literally, but that is not always the case. You're using your friends even when you're just hanging out with them, seeking companionship, so to speak.
Today, I used my friends.
For hard labor.
I love you guys! *teehee*(figuratively)
Related: I got that gun safe.
BTW, that's not me on the ground. That's SuburbanDweller, collapsed from overexertion of his not inconsiderable strength.
In other news:
The Brady Campaign is still pushing Starbucks to ban (legal) guns on their premises. Why the Bradys see it fit to force their way into Starbucks business and make them decide on ticking off a portion of their customers is beyond me. It's causing trouble where there was none. Fortunately, Starbucks ain't having none of that shit and telling the Brady's to fuck off, and that they'll sell their coffee to whomever they damn well please. 'Least that's how I'm reading it.
I'm also never eating at a CPK or a Peet's ever again. Not that I'm against their usage of their right to ban guns on their property, but that they caved to Brady's scare tactics.
Also, I hear that vintners are kegging wine. And that sounds awesome. I don't know how many half-finished bottles of wine I've seen poured out, but it's a disgustingly large number.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)