Welcome back to A Rambler's Rambling. This is the new and improved version of this blog that is going to just blow your mind! Well, maybe not, but it's at least going to be updated frequently. Kind of like the way it used to be way back when (we're talking almost four years ago now!). . .
Anyway, my stress level is at an all-time high as I am in the process of moving in the middle of Week 14/16 of the semester, which also happens to be the first week of Prom for the high schools in the Simi Valley area, causing me to have to work a few extra hours at the ol' MW. So not only am I pulling twelve hour shifts (tomorrow, in fact, I will be there from 9-9), getting ready for finals and doing final projects (my last Lab Report is due this Thursday), but I'm busily packing the items that just got unpacked seven short months ago. . .
But I'm getting ahead of myself.
How did I get to some of these spots exactly? Let me divulge, if I can be brief. . .
Back in mid-late September, things were going decently at the MW in Palmdale. I was comfortable in the location and really getting to like the crew there. I was approaching my one year mark with the company (to see my thoughts after my first week there, head here) when Kim, my District Manager who recruited me, asked me if I wanted to go down to Woodland Hills (one of the top two volume stores in our district) and interview for an upcoming opening on their Sales Team. I was nervous, but thanks to her encouragement, I went for it. I got down there, met the Store Manager, Edward, and the position was all but mine, save for one thing. . . Me accepting it. Now, I had wanted to move down that direction for some time (even doing this same interview thing back in May 2008 in Burbank) but it was also a scary idea of having to move out of the nest, which was a rather safe nest at that.
But after much deliberation (and pushing from Kim - she told me that this could be my last chance to get down below, closer to school, for some time) I decided to take it. Ok, great, now you start in two weeks! So within that two weeks, I looked at some apartments in the cities in between Northridge (school) and Woodland Hills (work) and tried to find the best deal/situation available in such a short time. I felt like Goldilocks, where things were either too nice (therefore too expensive) or too disheveled to even consider setting something down for fear it would get taken. I finally found one in Reseda, and the apartment was 3 miles from school and 6 from work. Perfect! It wasn't great but it had a garage that I could share with four other people, so at least my car would be protected. It was a downstairs apartment, so at least moving would be easier. It was a one bedroom, all I needed, with a spacious kitchen and living room. And although the neighborhood was almost Little Mexico (complete with an Ice Cream truck that plays mariachi music), I took it because I could get it on my own without my parents co-signing, a big deal for my first place. So I signed a one-year lease to pay $950 a month plus utilities at the Ambassador Apartments.
Fast forward to today, and I have mixed reactions about my time spent here. It's been seven months, and having served my minimum tenancy of six months, I'm bailing. I gave them plenty of notice, so I will get my security deposit back (a cool $1000 thank you very much), but why leave, you might ask. Well I have had some interesting events occur around here over the last month or two, (don't worry, those stories will make their debuts soon) and my overall safety is in limbo on a day-to-day basis. I don't feel personally threatened or anything, but I just feel ridiculously uncomfortable, a feeling that you shouldn't have at home, or anywhere that you're spending more than $1000 a month to live in.
So I'm moving. Now, common sense says to move to northern Northridge by the 118 freeway, since I now work at the Simi Valley MW (oh, I didn't say that earlier - - sorry, I guess that longer story will have to wait too. Just go with it for now - I got promoted and am now an Assistant Manager II at the store there) and that would be better for getting to work. But, as I said the other day, I am going for happiness.
And the thing, or should I say person, who makes me happiest is Heather. We have now been together nearly 5.5 years (remember from my last post before my big break that we are no longer engaged, but happily moving towards that time - we don't want to get engaged again until the wedding could be in planning mode and we want to be closer to careers before that happens. . . but again, I'm getting ahead of myself) and now that I live down closer to her, our relationship has really hit new levels. We are closer than ever and enjoy spending time with each other more than anything. She gets her Bacherlors degree in June and starts up again in the Fall at Cal Poly Pomona for her Masters degree. Her lease with her three roommates (four girls, two bedrooms, rare visits for Justin) is up in July so we had already began planning a big move when my lease was up in October. However, with me getting out of mine early, she agreed to do the same (while still paying her minimal rent in Pomona) and we began apartment hunting a month ago.
And now we are just three days from moving to Glendale together.
But I think I'm gonna leave it at that for the night. If you got this far, I commend you, and promise that more details will follow. But for now, my bed is what calls me and I must listen, because like I said, a twelve hour work day awaits me.
I would like to take a second and welcome any new readers (namely, Fletch from Blog Cabins, based out of my home state of Arizona!) who have decided to see what I make of this renewed interest in blogging. I do hope to post things different than updates on my life, but since it has been so long, that's what's going to be prevalent for a couple weeks. Hang tight, learn a little something about me, and when we get to some more "fun" stuff, it will be worth the wait.
I hope.
Goodnight all, and I hope you have a pleasant Thursday - - -
Showing posts with label work. Show all posts
Showing posts with label work. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Exceeding Expectations
I do realize that it has now been 50 days since my last REAL post here on my blog. I needed a break. I paused in the middle (well, almost middle) of my planned 21 TO 21 thing before my birthday for many reasons. School was closing down and I began to desire (more than usual) to do well in my classes. I had coasted to what I would figure to be two A's and two B's, which would be fine (an overall 3.4 GPA) but towards the end of the semester, I decided that that would not be good enough. I actually sought to complete an assignment on time and to the best extent possible. I had myself prepared for tests and my finals as well. And what occurred?
I got the best grades I have gotten since my freshman year in high school. I completed the semester with two A's and two A-'s, giving me a 3.85 GPA and pulling my overall college GPA to over 3.5, which is my goal over the FIVE years that I will spend in college. Yes, five. Through my advisement and my own planning, I have discovered that I will need to spend one more year in college to earn my Bachelor's Degree. This is caused by my change of major between my first semester at CSUN and the one I just completed as well as the transfer from AVC to CSUN that provided some classes the opportunity to not count towards my degree. In addition to that, I would much rather not take more than 12-14 units a semester and I refuse to take summer courses because I want to be a sane individual through my schooling. I just do better when I take less classes per semester (as evidenced by my full point increase from the previous semester to the one I just finished). And I enjoy my schooling more when I can devote more time to the classes I'm taking.
Beyond this, blogging was not high on the To-Do list.
But now, four weeks into my summer vacation, I'm just a working machine, spending 40 hours a week at the MW. And it is going well. Every one of my last three weeks there I have exceeded my "Weekly Goal" and the week that just ended had me selling over $6900, essentially tying my highest week ever. My sales are higher because (gasp!) I'm spending more time there! Shocking that I can actually sell - maybe that's why I'm there in the first place. I love that my total sales over this last month meet or exceed every one of my counterparts. I now feel completely adequate and ready to move into the "Slow Period" of the Summer knowing that I can sell up to or better than everyone else in that store. Just bring on the customers!
The only kicker is that I have not seen Heather in nearly two weeks. . .
And there's actually some news on that front as well, but that will have to come next time as I am heading to actually see that better half of mine. She just got home since she just finished her quarter and has one week off (her "Summer" so to speak). So tonight, that means we get to watch KUNG FU PANDA, which I think will be good. And if not, at least I get to see this in its real context:
O yes! SKADOOSH!!!
Anyway, I'm back. And I'm better than ever. Expect more frequent (well, I guess anything is more frequent than once ever 50 days!) posts and just bring on the comments (Seriously - I need them to keep up my desire to be on here!) and enjoy as always!
So here we go - - -
Until later,
I got the best grades I have gotten since my freshman year in high school. I completed the semester with two A's and two A-'s, giving me a 3.85 GPA and pulling my overall college GPA to over 3.5, which is my goal over the FIVE years that I will spend in college. Yes, five. Through my advisement and my own planning, I have discovered that I will need to spend one more year in college to earn my Bachelor's Degree. This is caused by my change of major between my first semester at CSUN and the one I just completed as well as the transfer from AVC to CSUN that provided some classes the opportunity to not count towards my degree. In addition to that, I would much rather not take more than 12-14 units a semester and I refuse to take summer courses because I want to be a sane individual through my schooling. I just do better when I take less classes per semester (as evidenced by my full point increase from the previous semester to the one I just finished). And I enjoy my schooling more when I can devote more time to the classes I'm taking.
Beyond this, blogging was not high on the To-Do list.
But now, four weeks into my summer vacation, I'm just a working machine, spending 40 hours a week at the MW. And it is going well. Every one of my last three weeks there I have exceeded my "Weekly Goal" and the week that just ended had me selling over $6900, essentially tying my highest week ever. My sales are higher because (gasp!) I'm spending more time there! Shocking that I can actually sell - maybe that's why I'm there in the first place. I love that my total sales over this last month meet or exceed every one of my counterparts. I now feel completely adequate and ready to move into the "Slow Period" of the Summer knowing that I can sell up to or better than everyone else in that store. Just bring on the customers!
The only kicker is that I have not seen Heather in nearly two weeks. . .
And there's actually some news on that front as well, but that will have to come next time as I am heading to actually see that better half of mine. She just got home since she just finished her quarter and has one week off (her "Summer" so to speak). So tonight, that means we get to watch KUNG FU PANDA, which I think will be good. And if not, at least I get to see this in its real context:
O yes! SKADOOSH!!!
Anyway, I'm back. And I'm better than ever. Expect more frequent (well, I guess anything is more frequent than once ever 50 days!) posts and just bring on the comments (Seriously - I need them to keep up my desire to be on here!) and enjoy as always!
So here we go - - -
Until later,
Saturday, December 01, 2007
The Stretch Run
With one quick rip, the November page was ripped from my desktop calendar (which, ironically enough, does not top any desk, but rather is tacked to my wall) and I have now entered into December, arguably (especially by my beautiful fiancee) the greatest month of them all. . .
What follows is my agenda for the next month, and hopefully tonight, a few more detailed plans will follow that as well:
- Working at the MW at least 35 hours every week (the week of Christmas will be more like 30 though - -)
- My advisement with a counselor in the Family and Consumer Sciences department on 12/03 to go over my potential major change and what my possibilities are for next semester and beyond.
- Registration for the Spring semester on 12/04 (most likely limited to 12 units)
- Five finals (one no-note, no book; one at-home, open book; one oral, in class; one project; one I have no idea), countless tying-up assignments (in a simple maneuver that will God-willing get me through my 210 class - which is the one where I was told just yesterday, "If you pass," by the teacher whom I have most familiarized myself with this semester. . . that was tough to handle) and anything else that involves the last 14 weeks of school. My final day is the 17th and I will officially be done at 1000. . . yes, I'm counting.
- The MW Christmas party on 12/15. They take us via bus down to a hotel in L.A. where all of our stores in the district get together for a night of free food, drinks, and fun in a controlled, MW-only environment. As an employee, I was able to rent a tuxedo for free (this instead of a Christmas bonus) which gives me a no-charge $150 tux. That's cool. Seeing that I get to bring my lovely Heather, she wanted a new dress since I'll be wearing a tux. I agreed that since I will not be paying for my tux, gas, or food that night that I would buy her a brand new dress. . . so that's in the plans as well - probably this weekend. Should definitely be a fun night!
- Random tangent: Han Solo is the single coolest film character of all-time, joining the pantheon that includes Indiana Jones (so what does that say about Harrison Ford. . .), James Bond (but really only Sean Connery, Pierce Brosnan, and now Daniel Craig), Marty McFly, and a tie for fifth that includes countless characters that we all love, and won't be delved into now (that's a future blog post waiting to happen. . .). Don't agree with me on the Han Solo thing? I have one perfect argument that has no holes in it whatsoever. Ready?
Any questions?
- Christmas shopping: I guess. . . God knows when I'll actually be able to get to the store to pick up gifts (I'm planning one single gift of significance for each of those around me instead of several, potentially insignificant gifts) for my loved ones. Plus Heather's birthday on the 27th (for which she will be in Las Vegas with her sister and mom to celebrate her big 2-1!). . .
- And many other things. . . of course. But this is just a brief. I head to work at 1300 today and will be there for 8 hours, then it will be home to begin chipping away at all the work that I have to do for school.
- Another quick aside: my beloved Suns enter the month of December with a 12-4 record, giving us a pretty strong leap into the new month. I'm predicting a 12-3 December, which would put us at a very strong 24-7 through two months. Our potential struggle games are at Toronto on the 5th, as it's the second of a back-to-back after a game in Indiana on the 4th. We struggle in these types of games, which goes to show our giant loss to the Lakers earlier this season, so I would not be surprised if we lost. At home against Utah worries me on the 12th, if only because that is a good team, but they will be on a back-to-back after a home game the night before. So maybe not. It will be a good test though. We then are at San Antonio on the 17th and at Dallas on the 19th. . . two big tests. We WILL beat Dallas, but that Spurs game, I don't know. That one will be tough, and one that I will TIVO and watch later that week (why won't I be home - - - I guess you will have to check back in later this weekend to find out!)
Well enjoy your Saturday (for those who aren't working) and if you live in the area, hop into the MW for me. I'll be there til 2100 and would love to sell you a suit. . . it's been slow this week!
Take care and until later,
What follows is my agenda for the next month, and hopefully tonight, a few more detailed plans will follow that as well:
- Working at the MW at least 35 hours every week (the week of Christmas will be more like 30 though - -)
- My advisement with a counselor in the Family and Consumer Sciences department on 12/03 to go over my potential major change and what my possibilities are for next semester and beyond.
- Registration for the Spring semester on 12/04 (most likely limited to 12 units)
- Five finals (one no-note, no book; one at-home, open book; one oral, in class; one project; one I have no idea), countless tying-up assignments (in a simple maneuver that will God-willing get me through my 210 class - which is the one where I was told just yesterday, "If you pass," by the teacher whom I have most familiarized myself with this semester. . . that was tough to handle) and anything else that involves the last 14 weeks of school. My final day is the 17th and I will officially be done at 1000. . . yes, I'm counting.
- The MW Christmas party on 12/15. They take us via bus down to a hotel in L.A. where all of our stores in the district get together for a night of free food, drinks, and fun in a controlled, MW-only environment. As an employee, I was able to rent a tuxedo for free (this instead of a Christmas bonus) which gives me a no-charge $150 tux. That's cool. Seeing that I get to bring my lovely Heather, she wanted a new dress since I'll be wearing a tux. I agreed that since I will not be paying for my tux, gas, or food that night that I would buy her a brand new dress. . . so that's in the plans as well - probably this weekend. Should definitely be a fun night!
- Random tangent: Han Solo is the single coolest film character of all-time, joining the pantheon that includes Indiana Jones (so what does that say about Harrison Ford. . .), James Bond (but really only Sean Connery, Pierce Brosnan, and now Daniel Craig), Marty McFly, and a tie for fifth that includes countless characters that we all love, and won't be delved into now (that's a future blog post waiting to happen. . .). Don't agree with me on the Han Solo thing? I have one perfect argument that has no holes in it whatsoever. Ready?
Any questions?
- Christmas shopping: I guess. . . God knows when I'll actually be able to get to the store to pick up gifts (I'm planning one single gift of significance for each of those around me instead of several, potentially insignificant gifts) for my loved ones. Plus Heather's birthday on the 27th (for which she will be in Las Vegas with her sister and mom to celebrate her big 2-1!). . .
- And many other things. . . of course. But this is just a brief. I head to work at 1300 today and will be there for 8 hours, then it will be home to begin chipping away at all the work that I have to do for school.
- Another quick aside: my beloved Suns enter the month of December with a 12-4 record, giving us a pretty strong leap into the new month. I'm predicting a 12-3 December, which would put us at a very strong 24-7 through two months. Our potential struggle games are at Toronto on the 5th, as it's the second of a back-to-back after a game in Indiana on the 4th. We struggle in these types of games, which goes to show our giant loss to the Lakers earlier this season, so I would not be surprised if we lost. At home against Utah worries me on the 12th, if only because that is a good team, but they will be on a back-to-back after a home game the night before. So maybe not. It will be a good test though. We then are at San Antonio on the 17th and at Dallas on the 19th. . . two big tests. We WILL beat Dallas, but that Spurs game, I don't know. That one will be tough, and one that I will TIVO and watch later that week (why won't I be home - - - I guess you will have to check back in later this weekend to find out!)
Well enjoy your Saturday (for those who aren't working) and if you live in the area, hop into the MW for me. I'll be there til 2100 and would love to sell you a suit. . . it's been slow this week!
Take care and until later,
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Cars, Coughing, and 'Crastination
Hello readers - - -
I have a made-up reason for not blogging recently (I wanted casual viewers to the page to see The Engagement Story as the title of the most recent post and read it) and a real reason (I've been really busy with school, work, and everything in between) but in the end, it's just the simple fact that blogging takes up time and I don't have a lot of that. . .
So why would I possibly choose nearly 0100 in the morning to start writing a blog after two weeks absence?
One word: Procrastination.
I officially have three weeks of school left and it's getting down to the nitty gritty. I have an insane amount of insecurity right now about my grades. With my classes right now, I have the potential of getting a 3.6 G.P.A. but it is also very possible for me to get a 2.4 - - that's how up in the air everything is right now. I believe fairly strongly that I'll end up with a 3.0 even (the most likeliest of scenarios would two A's, one B, and two C's) and I would be ecstatic if that indeed happens. If my one classes tails down into a D, however (which I never thought would be possible for me, but lo and behold, it is a possibility) then I have to turn that into three A's, one C, and one D for that desired 3.0 average. More updates to come as the semester winds down.
However, the one major reason that I have been struggling this semester is the fact that I have lost the passion for Journalism. I blame it two main things: 1) My Journalism 210 class on Fridays, which has caused me to have to delve into "Investigative Journalism" which is not an interest of mine in the least, but a mandatory lesson for future journalists of any kind and 2) I'm not writing what I like to write, namely opinion pieces, reviews, and editorials. This one has more to do with the fact that I'm not writing for a paper that I'm among the editorial staff on (I'm not even writing for a paper at all, to be honest) and have no reason to even write articles like that, except for my own betterment. Well, I haven't, and I'm beginning to forget how to write a movie review (not really, but it would take some time to get back into the swing of things) or even express my opinions in written form (well that's not really true, but you get my point). I'm struggling, to say the least, and I have decided that I'm not going to pursue something that I hate doing.
Because, you see, I hate school. The thought of dropping out has crossed my mind numerous times, but will not come to pass because so many people want to see me graduate and I suppose that I am one of those as well. A break is an option, sure, but I know me, and I don't think that I would ever return to school if I took even just one semester off. . .
So I have done the only thing that my rational mind could come up with:
I'm switching majors.
Yes, I am forgoing (potentially - anything is possible after I actually get that piece of paper down the line) the lifelong dream of calling NBA games for a living because I am not enjoying a single Journalism class that I am taking. And as Heather put it, "You should enjoy your major classes - they're your Major!" - - Smart lass, she is. . .
So what is taking its place? Well, it's kinda funny actually. Ever since I was little, my mom's mom (Grandma Pat, or GP) has always told me that she saw me teaching one day. Well that would be one potential occupation for me after I attempt to get a Bachelor's Degree in Family and Consumer Sciences. I looked at my classes this semester and the only one that had subject matter that interested me was my Marriage and Family Relations class, which was in the section of FCS. So, let's go with that, I guess. I do have a meeting with an adviser on December 3rd and my registration date is December 4th, so a final decision will be made quickly and soon, so keep in touch to find out what all goes down.
Other than school, work at the MW is going ok. I'm much more comfortable now selling suits, however there aren't any customers to sell suits to! We have been surprisingly slow (so I'm told) for this time of year and I've spent a lot of my time at work reading books and playing games on my cell phone. . . which is fine and all, but it doesn't make me any money! I'm still doing about the same that I would be doing at the FL, but I was promised more, so I'm really hoping for a whirlwind of customers over the month of December to make up for this initial month.
And with that hope of more money comes the very real possibility of me becoming the proud owner of a new car! I have been car shopping very seriously over the last two weeks and even went as far as to test drive a couple last Friday. . . I am actually poised to make a purchase this week (if all goes according to plan, it would be either Thursday or Friday) but I'm gonna keep the make and model a secret until it actually goes through. . . Just know that it is absolutely positively NOT another Volkswagen. . . no no friends. Not again. . .
I have also been fighting a nice cough/congestion/runny nose/no voice cold thing since last Tuesday and it pretty much made Thanksgiving a forgettable one. Of course I am supremely thankful for Heather taking care of me on Thursday (even while cooking our turkey dinner all by herself - it was just her, me, and her mom, who worked most of the day - - my parents went up North to be with my Aunt and Uncle and cousins but since I had to work Wed. and Fri. I could not attend. . .) and the meal turned out great. I wish that I could have been more a part of Heather's first turn as a turkey cook and that we could have done things more together but I had to just lay on my ass all day and watch blowout football games because I didn't feel good. Heather took such great care of me though. . . It really does make me think about how much that she cares for me and how lucky I truly am when she makes me hot tea (with honey and lemon, her favorites) and goes to the store to get soup and cheese to make a Grilled Cheese sandwich (which I ate rather quickly!). If it hadn't been for me feeling like absolute crap, then I could have enjoyed all that she did even more, but she certainly made a difference on this so-so holiday.
Anyway, now that I've spent the last 20 minutes writing all this, I'm thinking I should get cracking on my three-page Media Critique on a website that is devoted solely to Men and their world (I'm choosing the oft-visited by me Ask Men) that is due in now thirteen hours. . .
But stay tuned this week. I'm hoping to put thought to type on a theory that I have been constructing in my mind over my last few journeys down to CSUN (there's only so many things you can think about when you drive long distances. . .) that I will merely tease you with in the form of a title:
The Justinian Theory of the Male Viewpoint of Sexuality
Intrigued? I know you are!!!
Anyway, I'll post again soon - - take care of yourselves!!!
Until later,
I have a made-up reason for not blogging recently (I wanted casual viewers to the page to see The Engagement Story as the title of the most recent post and read it) and a real reason (I've been really busy with school, work, and everything in between) but in the end, it's just the simple fact that blogging takes up time and I don't have a lot of that. . .
So why would I possibly choose nearly 0100 in the morning to start writing a blog after two weeks absence?
One word: Procrastination.
I officially have three weeks of school left and it's getting down to the nitty gritty. I have an insane amount of insecurity right now about my grades. With my classes right now, I have the potential of getting a 3.6 G.P.A. but it is also very possible for me to get a 2.4 - - that's how up in the air everything is right now. I believe fairly strongly that I'll end up with a 3.0 even (the most likeliest of scenarios would two A's, one B, and two C's) and I would be ecstatic if that indeed happens. If my one classes tails down into a D, however (which I never thought would be possible for me, but lo and behold, it is a possibility) then I have to turn that into three A's, one C, and one D for that desired 3.0 average. More updates to come as the semester winds down.
However, the one major reason that I have been struggling this semester is the fact that I have lost the passion for Journalism. I blame it two main things: 1) My Journalism 210 class on Fridays, which has caused me to have to delve into "Investigative Journalism" which is not an interest of mine in the least, but a mandatory lesson for future journalists of any kind and 2) I'm not writing what I like to write, namely opinion pieces, reviews, and editorials. This one has more to do with the fact that I'm not writing for a paper that I'm among the editorial staff on (I'm not even writing for a paper at all, to be honest) and have no reason to even write articles like that, except for my own betterment. Well, I haven't, and I'm beginning to forget how to write a movie review (not really, but it would take some time to get back into the swing of things) or even express my opinions in written form (well that's not really true, but you get my point). I'm struggling, to say the least, and I have decided that I'm not going to pursue something that I hate doing.
Because, you see, I hate school. The thought of dropping out has crossed my mind numerous times, but will not come to pass because so many people want to see me graduate and I suppose that I am one of those as well. A break is an option, sure, but I know me, and I don't think that I would ever return to school if I took even just one semester off. . .
So I have done the only thing that my rational mind could come up with:
I'm switching majors.
Yes, I am forgoing (potentially - anything is possible after I actually get that piece of paper down the line) the lifelong dream of calling NBA games for a living because I am not enjoying a single Journalism class that I am taking. And as Heather put it, "You should enjoy your major classes - they're your Major!" - - Smart lass, she is. . .
So what is taking its place? Well, it's kinda funny actually. Ever since I was little, my mom's mom (Grandma Pat, or GP) has always told me that she saw me teaching one day. Well that would be one potential occupation for me after I attempt to get a Bachelor's Degree in Family and Consumer Sciences. I looked at my classes this semester and the only one that had subject matter that interested me was my Marriage and Family Relations class, which was in the section of FCS. So, let's go with that, I guess. I do have a meeting with an adviser on December 3rd and my registration date is December 4th, so a final decision will be made quickly and soon, so keep in touch to find out what all goes down.
Other than school, work at the MW is going ok. I'm much more comfortable now selling suits, however there aren't any customers to sell suits to! We have been surprisingly slow (so I'm told) for this time of year and I've spent a lot of my time at work reading books and playing games on my cell phone. . . which is fine and all, but it doesn't make me any money! I'm still doing about the same that I would be doing at the FL, but I was promised more, so I'm really hoping for a whirlwind of customers over the month of December to make up for this initial month.
And with that hope of more money comes the very real possibility of me becoming the proud owner of a new car! I have been car shopping very seriously over the last two weeks and even went as far as to test drive a couple last Friday. . . I am actually poised to make a purchase this week (if all goes according to plan, it would be either Thursday or Friday) but I'm gonna keep the make and model a secret until it actually goes through. . . Just know that it is absolutely positively NOT another Volkswagen. . . no no friends. Not again. . .
I have also been fighting a nice cough/congestion/runny nose/no voice cold thing since last Tuesday and it pretty much made Thanksgiving a forgettable one. Of course I am supremely thankful for Heather taking care of me on Thursday (even while cooking our turkey dinner all by herself - it was just her, me, and her mom, who worked most of the day - - my parents went up North to be with my Aunt and Uncle and cousins but since I had to work Wed. and Fri. I could not attend. . .) and the meal turned out great. I wish that I could have been more a part of Heather's first turn as a turkey cook and that we could have done things more together but I had to just lay on my ass all day and watch blowout football games because I didn't feel good. Heather took such great care of me though. . . It really does make me think about how much that she cares for me and how lucky I truly am when she makes me hot tea (with honey and lemon, her favorites) and goes to the store to get soup and cheese to make a Grilled Cheese sandwich (which I ate rather quickly!). If it hadn't been for me feeling like absolute crap, then I could have enjoyed all that she did even more, but she certainly made a difference on this so-so holiday.
Anyway, now that I've spent the last 20 minutes writing all this, I'm thinking I should get cracking on my three-page Media Critique on a website that is devoted solely to Men and their world (I'm choosing the oft-visited by me Ask Men) that is due in now thirteen hours. . .
But stay tuned this week. I'm hoping to put thought to type on a theory that I have been constructing in my mind over my last few journeys down to CSUN (there's only so many things you can think about when you drive long distances. . .) that I will merely tease you with in the form of a title:
The Justinian Theory of the Male Viewpoint of Sexuality
Intrigued? I know you are!!!
Anyway, I'll post again soon - - take care of yourselves!!!
Until later,
Friday, July 27, 2007
Back to the Future
I'm taking a break this evening from my always on-going short story, THE ROAD TO NOWHERE (PART I and PART II), to give you a short update on my own goings on (you liked that play-on words huh?).
Well, for one, I am now officially an Assistant Manager at the FL! I went down to the Northridge store on Wednesday and I had a ninety minute conversation with C.J. who is my District Manager. He grilled me about some things and I seemed to give all the right answers. Well, I must have since I am now an A.M. I'll probably get my keys to the store in about a week. I have to be able to competently open and close the store before I can get them, so I have a couple shifts the next week with either Jose or Romique to open or close so I can learn how to do so. I'm excited! My pay raise should take effect on Sunday, as it is the beginning of the new pay period. That is even more exciting :) Probably the most important part of all is that this is the first step of several for me to prepare for moving out of my house. Lots of big things are in the planning stages and I am looking forward to how it all works out. . .
I have also officially registered for classes at CSUN! Wednesday was my day for registration (yes, the same Wednesday I went to Northridge for my meeting - - plus, I got a little head cold on the same day - - it was a stressful day to say the least) and I got four out of the five classes I wanted. I had to grab another class on a Friday morning so I will be at CSUN on Mondays, (4-645, 7-945 pm) Tuesdays, (2-450, 5-645 pm) and Fridays (9-1150 am). This means I am available to work either open or close shifts on Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday and I could work Monday morning and Friday night as well. The only thing I have to work out is when I'm gonna do homework. . . hmm. . .
While I'm thinking about it, I have to recommend a couple movies to the masses:
RATATOUILLE - the Pixar-animated film (written and directed by THE INCREDIBLES' helmer Brad Bird) was a surprisingly sweet and wonderful film that I enjoyed a great deal. It is towards the top on my yearly list thus far (right up there with ZODIAC).
TALK TO ME - Heather and I got to see this fantastic film over at Arclight last week and I loved it! Plus, following the movie, we were asked to participate in answering some questions about it for one of those audience-reaction commercials that so many movies are putting on TV nowadays - so look for me and Heather promoting TALK TO ME on a commercial near you :)
- - -
Also, thanks to those of you who are reading my short story. And I have to mention this because I just don't know what you do after you finish reading it, but there are just two things that I would ask of you following your completion of a post (it doesn't just have to be THE ROAD TO NOWHERE, but that one in particular):
1. Comment
2. Tell Someone About It
If each of you who reads it does both of those things, I would greatly appreciate it. Just mention it to a friend in passing - "Hey I read a cool story the other day on the internet" works just dandy! And come on, it's not like they're THAT long, right. . .
Thanks again :) I'm enjoying writing it and PART III should be hitting the internet waves sometime this week - so look for that!
- - -
I could continue on about things like the whole Tim Donaghy scandal (the NBA ref who is in trouble for betting on games and such - it's stupid but I believe that this one guy is an idiot and that not all refs should be investigated; at least not for that - they should be on trial for their incompetency as referees), what I think about the whole Michael Vick thing (he's an idiot - focus on football numnuts!), or even the popularity of that little wizard boy named Harry (Heather already finished book 7 - she read it in like three days - I wish that I had started from the beginning with everyone else way back when) but I won't.
Instead, I'll leave you with one link, several pictures, and two videos that have made me giddy, excited, and laugh respectively.
The link:
THE DARK KNIGHT teaser site
I could not be more excited for this film! Holy crap!!!
The pics:
In the same light as the site, here is the first high quality, in-action photo of Heath Ledger as the Joker in TDK. I was skeptical at first with the casting, but I'm loving it more and more!
Also, here are the pictures that my family took for our church directory a month or so ago:
They turned out really good! We're a good-lookin' bunch!
The vids:
Here is the phenomenon that is Pearl. . .
The Landlord:
Good Cop, Baby Cop:
- - -
- - -
Good stuff all around everybody - - -
Hope you enjoyed something! Let me know, howabout? :D
Have a weekend,
Well, for one, I am now officially an Assistant Manager at the FL! I went down to the Northridge store on Wednesday and I had a ninety minute conversation with C.J. who is my District Manager. He grilled me about some things and I seemed to give all the right answers. Well, I must have since I am now an A.M. I'll probably get my keys to the store in about a week. I have to be able to competently open and close the store before I can get them, so I have a couple shifts the next week with either Jose or Romique to open or close so I can learn how to do so. I'm excited! My pay raise should take effect on Sunday, as it is the beginning of the new pay period. That is even more exciting :) Probably the most important part of all is that this is the first step of several for me to prepare for moving out of my house. Lots of big things are in the planning stages and I am looking forward to how it all works out. . .
I have also officially registered for classes at CSUN! Wednesday was my day for registration (yes, the same Wednesday I went to Northridge for my meeting - - plus, I got a little head cold on the same day - - it was a stressful day to say the least) and I got four out of the five classes I wanted. I had to grab another class on a Friday morning so I will be at CSUN on Mondays, (4-645, 7-945 pm) Tuesdays, (2-450, 5-645 pm) and Fridays (9-1150 am). This means I am available to work either open or close shifts on Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday and I could work Monday morning and Friday night as well. The only thing I have to work out is when I'm gonna do homework. . . hmm. . .
While I'm thinking about it, I have to recommend a couple movies to the masses:
RATATOUILLE - the Pixar-animated film (written and directed by THE INCREDIBLES' helmer Brad Bird) was a surprisingly sweet and wonderful film that I enjoyed a great deal. It is towards the top on my yearly list thus far (right up there with ZODIAC).
TALK TO ME - Heather and I got to see this fantastic film over at Arclight last week and I loved it! Plus, following the movie, we were asked to participate in answering some questions about it for one of those audience-reaction commercials that so many movies are putting on TV nowadays - so look for me and Heather promoting TALK TO ME on a commercial near you :)
- - -
Also, thanks to those of you who are reading my short story. And I have to mention this because I just don't know what you do after you finish reading it, but there are just two things that I would ask of you following your completion of a post (it doesn't just have to be THE ROAD TO NOWHERE, but that one in particular):
1. Comment
2. Tell Someone About It
If each of you who reads it does both of those things, I would greatly appreciate it. Just mention it to a friend in passing - "Hey I read a cool story the other day on the internet" works just dandy! And come on, it's not like they're THAT long, right. . .
Thanks again :) I'm enjoying writing it and PART III should be hitting the internet waves sometime this week - so look for that!
- - -
I could continue on about things like the whole Tim Donaghy scandal (the NBA ref who is in trouble for betting on games and such - it's stupid but I believe that this one guy is an idiot and that not all refs should be investigated; at least not for that - they should be on trial for their incompetency as referees), what I think about the whole Michael Vick thing (he's an idiot - focus on football numnuts!), or even the popularity of that little wizard boy named Harry (Heather already finished book 7 - she read it in like three days - I wish that I had started from the beginning with everyone else way back when) but I won't.
Instead, I'll leave you with one link, several pictures, and two videos that have made me giddy, excited, and laugh respectively.
The link:
THE DARK KNIGHT teaser site
I could not be more excited for this film! Holy crap!!!
The pics:
In the same light as the site, here is the first high quality, in-action photo of Heath Ledger as the Joker in TDK. I was skeptical at first with the casting, but I'm loving it more and more!
Also, here are the pictures that my family took for our church directory a month or so ago:
They turned out really good! We're a good-lookin' bunch!
The vids:
Here is the phenomenon that is Pearl. . .
The Landlord:
Good Cop, Baby Cop:
- - -
- - -
Good stuff all around everybody - - -
Hope you enjoyed something! Let me know, howabout? :D
Have a weekend,
Thursday, June 07, 2007
Easy as 1-2-3
Well it's a Thursday night after 2300, and I am not even the least bit tired. I am registered for a play money tournament on PartyPoker at midnight and I'm tired of playing Blast Billiards (by the way, my high score is 3124 - just try to beat it!). Just thought I would lay out a few new/interesting/exciting things for you this evening.
One: I'm beginning training for Assistant Manager (not Assisstant TO the Regional Manager like my friend Dwight Shrute haha) at the FL. I'm very excited! Me - a Manager! I'm looking forward to the challenge, cuz it definitely will be one. The rumor at the store is that the GM wants to run the store with just four managers (the two existing ones and then the two of us who are training now) and a rare appearance by a Sales Associate. We would run the store (even though the four of us already kinda do - plus all of us have the best numbers in our sales) and do that well, I'm sure. . .
More as more comes around - but I'm excited!
Two: Aimee's injury update. It turns out the injury is just a hairline fracture (I use just for the forthcoming reasons) and that's actually a good thing. Well this means that she can slowly begin dancing next week and be ready for her recital in four weeks. She's walking around the house without crutches and she's happier, that's for sure. I'm happy for her because I know how much she loves the dancing. It seems that some things actually do work out. . .
Three: The world of frugal purchasing has been hovering around me. The first was this Tuesday when I bought seasons 7 and 8 of SEINFELD with the remainder of my gift cards from my birthday. I also bought the new CD by a fantastic Australian band (Guess where I heard about them???) called the John Butler Trio. The CD is great! The seasons are great - I've been watching SEINFELD nonstop! I only spent $30 of my own money on all three things, so I thank those who got me the gift cards, because they paid off very well! The other exciting purchase is one that I have been looking forward to for several months now. Realize that my goal out of this purchase is two-fold; one is for the joy of owning something I really want and find very very cool (and I might wear one. . . I'm still not sure). The second reason is that in a couple years' time, I could resell these items for potentially ten times what I bought them for. . . Now what are these items? Meet my two new best friends, Alpha and Omega!
These are the newest Jordan releases and they came out a week ago. I wanted to get them, but I couldn't because our store did not carry them (most unfortunately). I could have driven to Northridge to get them, but I did not feel like driving 100 miles roundtrip for shoes. Well today at work, we got two cases of them from the Fox Hills Mall store, since they had too many (they initially got something like 400 pairs!). Well I can't pass them up now (we actually just got the Alphas - the Carolina blue ones) and especially for the price I get them for. This is how it is going down. . .
I'm going to buy two pairs of the Alphas (retail $110) and one pair of the Omegas (retail $175). The total for your average joe would be $430 but I will get them for $300 even after my discount. That's $100 a pair! I will take one pair of each (the only pair of Omegas then) and keep them in their box and leave them in perfect condition. I will maintain them and make sure they stay in mint condition. I was told by a big shoe head (the term used to describe a shoe collector) that in as few as two or three years that these shoes could be as much as $1000 each! And just think about five years after that! Or when Jordan dies in 30 years or something. . . Let me put it to you this way: This guy I was talking to today told me that he has a friend who sold his entire collection of Original Jordans, 1-21 (all original pairs in a size 9.5) for 2.5 million dollars! He sold them to a Japanese businessman. . . It's unbelievable how the shoe business works!
Well the other pair of Alphas are for me. I can do whatever I want with them. First off, I love the shoes. I would definitely wear them. And I could. . . I think I would be the only white boy around that would be rocking these shoes (ha - that's the truth though!). So how am I paying for these? There are two parts to this as well: One is that my parents are giving me $100 towards them, partially as a gift for graduating AVC - - Two is that I just got paid, I already made my car payment for the month, and I am definitely starting to make some more money.
. . .
So I'm excited. . .
Yes.
And a few more things, but in a more rapid fire nature:
- Heather is home for the weekend and then moving into her new apartment in Pomona on Monday. Also very exciting!
- Monday is both Chelsea and Pop's birthday - Happy Birthday to both!
- Probably finally going to see the long-ass PIRATES movie this weekend. I'm not that excited. . . But I guess I have to see it since I'm so involved already.
- And finally, an NBA Finals prediction. Yes, I'm aware GAME ONE was tonight (a SPURS victory) but ask anyone around that I said SPURS in six games since last week. It very well might go five games actually, unless the refs bail the CAVS out twice at home. We'll see. . . Either way, I don't care. At all. I hate both teams. Very much. . .
Well have a good Friday - - -
Goodnight all!
One: I'm beginning training for Assistant Manager (not Assisstant TO the Regional Manager like my friend Dwight Shrute haha) at the FL. I'm very excited! Me - a Manager! I'm looking forward to the challenge, cuz it definitely will be one. The rumor at the store is that the GM wants to run the store with just four managers (the two existing ones and then the two of us who are training now) and a rare appearance by a Sales Associate. We would run the store (even though the four of us already kinda do - plus all of us have the best numbers in our sales) and do that well, I'm sure. . .
More as more comes around - but I'm excited!
Two: Aimee's injury update. It turns out the injury is just a hairline fracture (I use just for the forthcoming reasons) and that's actually a good thing. Well this means that she can slowly begin dancing next week and be ready for her recital in four weeks. She's walking around the house without crutches and she's happier, that's for sure. I'm happy for her because I know how much she loves the dancing. It seems that some things actually do work out. . .
Three: The world of frugal purchasing has been hovering around me. The first was this Tuesday when I bought seasons 7 and 8 of SEINFELD with the remainder of my gift cards from my birthday. I also bought the new CD by a fantastic Australian band (Guess where I heard about them???) called the John Butler Trio. The CD is great! The seasons are great - I've been watching SEINFELD nonstop! I only spent $30 of my own money on all three things, so I thank those who got me the gift cards, because they paid off very well! The other exciting purchase is one that I have been looking forward to for several months now. Realize that my goal out of this purchase is two-fold; one is for the joy of owning something I really want and find very very cool (and I might wear one. . . I'm still not sure). The second reason is that in a couple years' time, I could resell these items for potentially ten times what I bought them for. . . Now what are these items? Meet my two new best friends, Alpha and Omega!
These are the newest Jordan releases and they came out a week ago. I wanted to get them, but I couldn't because our store did not carry them (most unfortunately). I could have driven to Northridge to get them, but I did not feel like driving 100 miles roundtrip for shoes. Well today at work, we got two cases of them from the Fox Hills Mall store, since they had too many (they initially got something like 400 pairs!). Well I can't pass them up now (we actually just got the Alphas - the Carolina blue ones) and especially for the price I get them for. This is how it is going down. . .
I'm going to buy two pairs of the Alphas (retail $110) and one pair of the Omegas (retail $175). The total for your average joe would be $430 but I will get them for $300 even after my discount. That's $100 a pair! I will take one pair of each (the only pair of Omegas then) and keep them in their box and leave them in perfect condition. I will maintain them and make sure they stay in mint condition. I was told by a big shoe head (the term used to describe a shoe collector) that in as few as two or three years that these shoes could be as much as $1000 each! And just think about five years after that! Or when Jordan dies in 30 years or something. . . Let me put it to you this way: This guy I was talking to today told me that he has a friend who sold his entire collection of Original Jordans, 1-21 (all original pairs in a size 9.5) for 2.5 million dollars! He sold them to a Japanese businessman. . . It's unbelievable how the shoe business works!
Well the other pair of Alphas are for me. I can do whatever I want with them. First off, I love the shoes. I would definitely wear them. And I could. . . I think I would be the only white boy around that would be rocking these shoes (ha - that's the truth though!). So how am I paying for these? There are two parts to this as well: One is that my parents are giving me $100 towards them, partially as a gift for graduating AVC - - Two is that I just got paid, I already made my car payment for the month, and I am definitely starting to make some more money.
. . .
So I'm excited. . .
Yes.
And a few more things, but in a more rapid fire nature:
- Heather is home for the weekend and then moving into her new apartment in Pomona on Monday. Also very exciting!
- Monday is both Chelsea and Pop's birthday - Happy Birthday to both!
- Probably finally going to see the long-ass PIRATES movie this weekend. I'm not that excited. . . But I guess I have to see it since I'm so involved already.
- And finally, an NBA Finals prediction. Yes, I'm aware GAME ONE was tonight (a SPURS victory) but ask anyone around that I said SPURS in six games since last week. It very well might go five games actually, unless the refs bail the CAVS out twice at home. We'll see. . . Either way, I don't care. At all. I hate both teams. Very much. . .
Well have a good Friday - - -
Goodnight all!
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
The Joy of Tivo, The Pain of Death
and a Really Bad Day Car-Wise
Well today was the first official day that I felt like I was done with school. You see, today was a Tuesday and that usually means school. But not today. Allow me to pause a second to relish in the joy that is summer vacation. . .
. . .
. . .
Wow. I am SO very excited!!! Even though I will be working a lot (I got my manager to finally give me more hours - - next week I have 27), my time is going to be spent doing a lot of nothing. And that makes me happy. Of course, I plan on reading some books, catching up on my TIVO'd shows (more on that later), and being active, but I will not be doing homework, or reading any Shakespeare, and certainly not venturing to AVC anytime soon. That makes me happy.
On a work-related note, I have gotten the green light to begin doing the prepatory learning modules (our training at the FL) to become an Associate Manager. It is vey exciting! It would not only mean a raise (to at least $9.50 an hour - I know it's not that great, but it IS better than minimum wage) but mucho mas horas (that means "much more hours" for you unolingual individuals. . .) as well. I'll let you know how that goest when more begins to fall into place. . .
Back to TIVO. Have I mentioned how wonderful TIVO is? When I move out (God-willing by next summer) I will be putting the price of one in my budget. I don't want to think about life without it. Yes, it is that ridiculously fantastic! Well I caught up on a few shows tonight, seeing that I had nothing else on my plate for the evening. I watched two episodes of STUDIO 60 ON THE SUNSET STRIP, which is airing its final episodes this summer. I am still broken up over the quick deletion of this show from NBC's schedule, but whatever. The only season has been great thus far, and I look forward to how it will end. I also sped through the last two episodes of the new FOX reality show ON THE LOT, where a bunch of aspiring filmmakers try to earn a lucrative prize that includes a million dollar movie deal. The bummer part is that the show has gotten extremely blahish - - I think I'm done with it. Yes. Yes, I am.
And then I watched this week's season premiere of HELL'S KITCHEN, which is back for its third season!!! I'm so giddy about the return of this show! I love everything about it and this season is going to be incredible - I just know it!
The TIVO was good for me tonight because I had a rough day car-wise. First off, I kissed back bumpers with a Suburban in the Mall parking lot as I left work today. He was parked behind me and to the right (smack dab in my blind spot) and we both backed up right into each other. A completely mutual 5 MPH accident. His car was fine (Being a beast of a Suburban) and mine was left with only scratches and a tiny dent near the trunk - I figured it was fine. We agreed to just leave it and not worry about info or anything like that. Well when I got home and opened my trunk just to see what had happened, I could not close it! It did not latch. Apparently, in the light tapping, the bumper was moved enough so that the latch would not engage or something like that. My dad, being the savvy body-repair man that he is, did tinker with it and got it to close - however, if I am to open it (which I will avoid at all costs) then I am going to have to slam/manipulate it into shutting again.
While he was inspecting the trunk, he also checked the air pressure on my tires. Turns out, I had a tiny nail in my front right tire and it was causing a small leak. So I hurried over to American Tire Co. before they closed at 1800. I got there around 1700 and my mom had told me it might take 10 minutes to do. That was fine with me seeing that I had not eaten all day and dinner was not quite ready anyway. So I went and I ended up being there until a little after 1800 because of the business of this place. I was pretty flustered, especially since I had not brought anything to entertain myself with (e.g. IPOD, book). I ended up talking to Heather for about twenty minutes on the phone (which was nice) and staring off into the distance for the remainder of the time. But, they fixed it, and now that's better.
Here's a new goal: I want a different car by the end of the year. I presently owe about $5500 on my car and it is worth a little bit more than that (not much, mind you). I'll be down to about $4500 by the end of 2007 and if I could somehow get $6000 for it, then I could have a nice down payment on something newer. I have had the car for almost three years now (Seems longer, though) and I certainly would not mind something newer and better (and with fewer miles!). So we'll see how that goes. . .
And now on to more bad news: on Monday morning, my mom received a call from a business colleague who informed her that her long-time associate John Brooks (I mentioned him in this post back in April 2006) had passed away from a major heart attack. I am still in shock over this. I don't know how old he was, but he could not have been older than 60. He was a brilliant and caring man who did everything he could to help those whom he liked. He is the one who gave my dad and me tickets to the Easter Sunday Lakers/Suns game (very expensive tickets just given to us). It was John and his wife who took me to my first NBA game back when I was like eight or so. He drove me down to see the Lakers and Rockets play at the old Great Western Forum. I actually don't remember anything about the game (who won, the players, any plays) but I will always remember going with them and then to the Cheesecake Factory for food. His wealth (I would say he was a multi-millionaire. . . multi-multi even!) was not obvious, as he carried himself with a humility that is rivaled by few. John gave a start to many people in this valley (and to Ed, my mom's boss) and was many people's safety blankets. It is hard to imagine him not being around anymore, even though we have not talked in a very long time. But we used to. And his role in my mom's life (through their businesses) caused her to take it very hard as well. It just sucks. I hate death.
A quick bowling note before I head out for the night: I averaged 180 over ten games last night, which is very exciting. I'm starting to learn my new ball and all the things that it does. 200 average, here I come!!!
No work for me tomorrow, but I will be there on Thursday and Friday both. . . come stop by!
Have a good Wednesday!
. . .
. . .
Wow. I am SO very excited!!! Even though I will be working a lot (I got my manager to finally give me more hours - - next week I have 27), my time is going to be spent doing a lot of nothing. And that makes me happy. Of course, I plan on reading some books, catching up on my TIVO'd shows (more on that later), and being active, but I will not be doing homework, or reading any Shakespeare, and certainly not venturing to AVC anytime soon. That makes me happy.
On a work-related note, I have gotten the green light to begin doing the prepatory learning modules (our training at the FL) to become an Associate Manager. It is vey exciting! It would not only mean a raise (to at least $9.50 an hour - I know it's not that great, but it IS better than minimum wage) but mucho mas horas (that means "much more hours" for you unolingual individuals. . .) as well. I'll let you know how that goest when more begins to fall into place. . .
Back to TIVO. Have I mentioned how wonderful TIVO is? When I move out (God-willing by next summer) I will be putting the price of one in my budget. I don't want to think about life without it. Yes, it is that ridiculously fantastic! Well I caught up on a few shows tonight, seeing that I had nothing else on my plate for the evening. I watched two episodes of STUDIO 60 ON THE SUNSET STRIP, which is airing its final episodes this summer. I am still broken up over the quick deletion of this show from NBC's schedule, but whatever. The only season has been great thus far, and I look forward to how it will end. I also sped through the last two episodes of the new FOX reality show ON THE LOT, where a bunch of aspiring filmmakers try to earn a lucrative prize that includes a million dollar movie deal. The bummer part is that the show has gotten extremely blahish - - I think I'm done with it. Yes. Yes, I am.
And then I watched this week's season premiere of HELL'S KITCHEN, which is back for its third season!!! I'm so giddy about the return of this show! I love everything about it and this season is going to be incredible - I just know it!
The TIVO was good for me tonight because I had a rough day car-wise. First off, I kissed back bumpers with a Suburban in the Mall parking lot as I left work today. He was parked behind me and to the right (smack dab in my blind spot) and we both backed up right into each other. A completely mutual 5 MPH accident. His car was fine (Being a beast of a Suburban) and mine was left with only scratches and a tiny dent near the trunk - I figured it was fine. We agreed to just leave it and not worry about info or anything like that. Well when I got home and opened my trunk just to see what had happened, I could not close it! It did not latch. Apparently, in the light tapping, the bumper was moved enough so that the latch would not engage or something like that. My dad, being the savvy body-repair man that he is, did tinker with it and got it to close - however, if I am to open it (which I will avoid at all costs) then I am going to have to slam/manipulate it into shutting again.
While he was inspecting the trunk, he also checked the air pressure on my tires. Turns out, I had a tiny nail in my front right tire and it was causing a small leak. So I hurried over to American Tire Co. before they closed at 1800. I got there around 1700 and my mom had told me it might take 10 minutes to do. That was fine with me seeing that I had not eaten all day and dinner was not quite ready anyway. So I went and I ended up being there until a little after 1800 because of the business of this place. I was pretty flustered, especially since I had not brought anything to entertain myself with (e.g. IPOD, book). I ended up talking to Heather for about twenty minutes on the phone (which was nice) and staring off into the distance for the remainder of the time. But, they fixed it, and now that's better.
Here's a new goal: I want a different car by the end of the year. I presently owe about $5500 on my car and it is worth a little bit more than that (not much, mind you). I'll be down to about $4500 by the end of 2007 and if I could somehow get $6000 for it, then I could have a nice down payment on something newer. I have had the car for almost three years now (Seems longer, though) and I certainly would not mind something newer and better (and with fewer miles!). So we'll see how that goes. . .
And now on to more bad news: on Monday morning, my mom received a call from a business colleague who informed her that her long-time associate John Brooks (I mentioned him in this post back in April 2006) had passed away from a major heart attack. I am still in shock over this. I don't know how old he was, but he could not have been older than 60. He was a brilliant and caring man who did everything he could to help those whom he liked. He is the one who gave my dad and me tickets to the Easter Sunday Lakers/Suns game (very expensive tickets just given to us). It was John and his wife who took me to my first NBA game back when I was like eight or so. He drove me down to see the Lakers and Rockets play at the old Great Western Forum. I actually don't remember anything about the game (who won, the players, any plays) but I will always remember going with them and then to the Cheesecake Factory for food. His wealth (I would say he was a multi-millionaire. . . multi-multi even!) was not obvious, as he carried himself with a humility that is rivaled by few. John gave a start to many people in this valley (and to Ed, my mom's boss) and was many people's safety blankets. It is hard to imagine him not being around anymore, even though we have not talked in a very long time. But we used to. And his role in my mom's life (through their businesses) caused her to take it very hard as well. It just sucks. I hate death.
A quick bowling note before I head out for the night: I averaged 180 over ten games last night, which is very exciting. I'm starting to learn my new ball and all the things that it does. 200 average, here I come!!!
No work for me tomorrow, but I will be there on Thursday and Friday both. . . come stop by!
Have a good Wednesday!
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Because We Like Them So Much
It's been two weeks (well, just about) since a blog and SO MUCH has happened since I posted on Sunday May 6th. I'm gonna do a GRAB-BAG-esque post but it is not a GRAB-BAG. Just so you know :) Enjoy:
- Probably the biggest change that has happened in these two weeks is my age. I am now 20 (about time! . . I had already started telling people I was 20 around town). Is that an accomplishment? No, not really. But I am halfway to 40, so that counts for something I guess. . . It's very hard to believe how fast the time has gone. I was having a late-night dinner thing with Cy last night and I mentioned that we had been friends since 7th grade, which would have made us 13. And honestly, it seems like yesterday that we just met and were making jokes in Mr. Arnett's 1st period English class. But anyway. . . I'm 20 :) Yay for me! One more year til the big 2-1 baby!
- Another thing that's changed is that I will no longer be watching the NBA playoffs. The saddest moment of my year occurred last night when my Suns watched the goddamn Spurs build a 20 point lead in the fourth quarter, only to fight back and lose by 8 points. It was awful. I cried. I really did. I can't explain it, well, not very good at least. The sport of basketball is important to me. It is always there for me. It never lets me down. When I need to think about things, I grab a ball and head out to a court. My dream growing up was always to be a member of the Phoenix Suns and lead them to a championship. It's what I saw in my head when I closed my eyes to sleep. I want only a few things more than for my team to be victorious. I don't believe that there is no bigger fan of the Suns than me. And when they enter the playoffs, that is the time that I hang on their performance even more. And they have never pulled through for me. Ever. We are now at the point of the year where I have to wait until November to even watch them play again. That is a little upsetting. . . Caleb was also crying last night after the buzzer sounded. He was just hoping that "Steve (Nash) was ok" . . . As I hugged Caleb and my eyes were welling up, I asked him why we cared so much. I knew he didn't have the all-encompassing answer, but his response did make sense: "Because we like them so much." It was the sweetest answer he could have conjured up, and after he said it, I hugged him, told him I loved him and he went off to bed. . . I have never felt closer to him. My brother might only be 6 (he will be that old in July) but he already has the heart of a fan. And for that, I am thankful.
- I did officially quit BJ's on Wednesday the 9th. It went well actually. The General Manager Mike actually asked me to stay (not surprising - I assume he wants to keep as many people working there as possible) in some capacity. He offered me an Expo job (they are the guys who talk to the cooks and tell them what food to make, when to put it out, etc.) but I declined. I won't go into the grave details again, but I just didn't want to work that job anymore. My hands are now washed and I am free from that job. Done and done.
- This past Tuesday night I had the greatest non-Heather-involved time in recent memory. After work (I had to work an 1800-close shift at the FL) a guy from work and I went over to BJ's to eat. My buddy Chris (bowling buddy) met us there and then another guy I know from both JC and BJ's joined us once he got off work. We talked about basketball (all-things NBA related) from around 2200 to a little after 0100. It was fantastic. I would discuss it in greater detail but the brilliance of the night was in its all-over-the-place nature. We had a blast (at least I did) and I hope to do it again soon.
- I would post more, but I'm gonna finish with my recent addition to the AVC Examiner. I had to come up with a small article about SPIDER-MAN 3 (don't let my article dissuade you, I actually enjoyed the movie. . .) and I went with something new and fun. It's a loose prose (not poetry, per say) but I really like it. Anyway, here it is (in the article, it is not numbered, but I'm gonna leave them in place - o, and the greatest part of all was the title of the article. . . you'll see!)
A RAMBLER'S RAMBLING: THE SPIDER-MAN 3 VERSION
BY JUSTIN GOTT - SENIOR WRITER
Goodnight for now. . .
- Probably the biggest change that has happened in these two weeks is my age. I am now 20 (about time! . . I had already started telling people I was 20 around town). Is that an accomplishment? No, not really. But I am halfway to 40, so that counts for something I guess. . . It's very hard to believe how fast the time has gone. I was having a late-night dinner thing with Cy last night and I mentioned that we had been friends since 7th grade, which would have made us 13. And honestly, it seems like yesterday that we just met and were making jokes in Mr. Arnett's 1st period English class. But anyway. . . I'm 20 :) Yay for me! One more year til the big 2-1 baby!
- Another thing that's changed is that I will no longer be watching the NBA playoffs. The saddest moment of my year occurred last night when my Suns watched the goddamn Spurs build a 20 point lead in the fourth quarter, only to fight back and lose by 8 points. It was awful. I cried. I really did. I can't explain it, well, not very good at least. The sport of basketball is important to me. It is always there for me. It never lets me down. When I need to think about things, I grab a ball and head out to a court. My dream growing up was always to be a member of the Phoenix Suns and lead them to a championship. It's what I saw in my head when I closed my eyes to sleep. I want only a few things more than for my team to be victorious. I don't believe that there is no bigger fan of the Suns than me. And when they enter the playoffs, that is the time that I hang on their performance even more. And they have never pulled through for me. Ever. We are now at the point of the year where I have to wait until November to even watch them play again. That is a little upsetting. . . Caleb was also crying last night after the buzzer sounded. He was just hoping that "Steve (Nash) was ok" . . . As I hugged Caleb and my eyes were welling up, I asked him why we cared so much. I knew he didn't have the all-encompassing answer, but his response did make sense: "Because we like them so much." It was the sweetest answer he could have conjured up, and after he said it, I hugged him, told him I loved him and he went off to bed. . . I have never felt closer to him. My brother might only be 6 (he will be that old in July) but he already has the heart of a fan. And for that, I am thankful.
- I did officially quit BJ's on Wednesday the 9th. It went well actually. The General Manager Mike actually asked me to stay (not surprising - I assume he wants to keep as many people working there as possible) in some capacity. He offered me an Expo job (they are the guys who talk to the cooks and tell them what food to make, when to put it out, etc.) but I declined. I won't go into the grave details again, but I just didn't want to work that job anymore. My hands are now washed and I am free from that job. Done and done.
- This past Tuesday night I had the greatest non-Heather-involved time in recent memory. After work (I had to work an 1800-close shift at the FL) a guy from work and I went over to BJ's to eat. My buddy Chris (bowling buddy) met us there and then another guy I know from both JC and BJ's joined us once he got off work. We talked about basketball (all-things NBA related) from around 2200 to a little after 0100. It was fantastic. I would discuss it in greater detail but the brilliance of the night was in its all-over-the-place nature. We had a blast (at least I did) and I hope to do it again soon.
- I would post more, but I'm gonna finish with my recent addition to the AVC Examiner. I had to come up with a small article about SPIDER-MAN 3 (don't let my article dissuade you, I actually enjoyed the movie. . .) and I went with something new and fun. It's a loose prose (not poetry, per say) but I really like it. Anyway, here it is (in the article, it is not numbered, but I'm gonna leave them in place - o, and the greatest part of all was the title of the article. . . you'll see!)
A RAMBLER'S RAMBLING: THE SPIDER-MAN 3 VERSION
BY JUSTIN GOTT - SENIOR WRITER
- Spider-Man 3
- The web-slinger’s third adventure
- But is it worth your $10
- And why are movie tickets so expensive?
- But I digress
- So our friendly neighborhood Spider-Man. . .
- The trailers say he is turning evil
- Fighting himself
- Don’t we all
- Peter Parker is a nerd of nerds
- His girlfriend is a failed actress
- His best friend wants to kill him
- Sound familiar?
- Now black space goo is chasing him
- I hate when that happens
- Now a convict has morphed into a giant Sandman (who does look cool)
- But I have already seen The Mummy
- $150 million in its first weekend, huh?
- What’s the national deficit again?
- I guess Americans like their heroes
- “I understand him” we think
- I have two personalities
- I wear a mask
- I have powerful enemies (Uncle Sam anyone?)
- But I don’t have super powers
- Wish I did
- But then I would have to fight crime
- Or commit crimes
- The film runs 2 ½ hours
- Why do I have questions?
- A $250 million budget, huh?
- A plethora of computer graphics
- But who got paid to write the script?
- And who voted for Kirsten Dunst to sing?
- Or act?
- Topher Grace is cocky
- But he is certainly competent
- Thomas Haden Church broods
- And avoids being worthless
- So how can it fail!?!?
- It has so much going for it
- Maybe too much
- Too much hype
- Too many characters
- Not enough development
- Spider-Man 3
- The famous arachnid man returns
- Not a complete disappointment
- Not a total failure
- But on a Friday night?
- Keep your money in your wallet
- Or go rent Spider-Man 2
- Will there be a fourth film?
- I would bet $150 million
- Spider-Man 3
- Stan Lee’s crime-fighting super hero
- He is just a man
- And a spider
- And wealthy. . . now
- Crowds love Spider-Man
- How can Mary Jane hate on that?
- All he does is good
- Right?
- So why is his suit black?
- Why is black considered evil again?
- Tough times for Spidey
- Police radio echoing in his apartment
- Spider suit under his street clothes
- Bathroom breaks must be a bitch
- American flag
- Random, I know
- Seen the first two films?
- You understand then
- “Go get ‘em tiger”
- $150 million, huh?
- He got ‘em
- “Catches thieves just like flies”
- And dollars, too
- “Here comes the Spider-Man”
- Spider-Man 3
- A joke?
- Sometimes
- A serious drama?
- Not really.
- A high-budget soap opera on steroids?
- Absolutely
- Around-the-clock screenings
- Nonstop action
- Mind-numbing absurdity
- Spider-Man 3
- Just another sequel
- Thanks Hollywood
Goodnight for now. . .
Sunday, May 06, 2007
The Weekend Grab-Bag: The FTS Version
The post is rated R by the Blogger Association of America (or BAA). . . If there was one. . .
Well this past week has been good. . . and bad. Mostly bad. But good too. . . Anyway, onto the Grab-Bag, and as always (wow, it's been awhile since I've said this. . .) expect the wonderful unchronological goodness:
- Well I have to start with the title and its meaning. The T stands for the this/that and the other two letters stand for profanities. Get it? Got it. Good.
- I basically had that mentality several times during the weekend that has just been completed. It happened mostly during work at BJ's (which, believe me, I will get to momentarily) but also during a recliner-kicking, folder-throwing loss (because, well, that's what I did after the game) by my SUNS. What a tough game. . . We are now in the second round against the Spurs and today was Game 1. We lost 111-106 after an unbelievably competitive game that featured lead change after lead change. Unfortunately, our MVP Steve Nash got a nasty cut on his nose with a little under three minutes left (from a nasty collision with Spurs guard Tony Parker - that's Mr. Eva Longoria to you). This did not seem that bad at first and Nash actually hit a three and a layup over the next 45 seconds. But then, the bleeding would not stop! It was terrible! Nash ended up sitting the rest of the game as the training staff tried everything but taking his nose off to get it stop bleeding. See:
We ended up losing because we missed a couple shots (Note to Amare: Use the damn backboard!!!) and our general was not on the floor at crunch time. That's it. Game 2 is a must-win for us and then we have to steal one in San Antonio to get back the home court advantage. . . I think we win the series in seven games. . . but who knows! Also, here are my other second round predictions: Warriors over the Jazz in six games, Nets over the Cavs in six games, and the Pistons over the Bulls in five games.
- Enough basketball (well, not really - - in my mind, there is NEVER enough basketball!) for now. On to my lack of Heather-time. It has now been one week since we have seen each other and it will continue through Thursday night. I am taking Aimee down to Arclight to see SPIDER-MAN 3 (don't tell me anything - - I was apparently the only American not to see it this weekend!) on Thursday (for HER birthday but on MY birthday - - confused?) and Heather is meeting us there! I'm excited! I am also excited to report that whenever we decide to get married (which is looking more and more like 2009. . . woohoo!) that we have ourselves a minister. Dr. Roland, my favorite teacher from high school besides Mr. Thomas, and I had lunch on Thursday of last week. I had wanted to ask his advice about my and Heather's situation and all that jazz as well as ask him if he could actually perform the ceremony, whenever that might be. He said he would be "honored" (when it's actually the other way around) and would even "pay his own way to get wherever it was we got married" (if it was far away). I couldn't be happier about that. . . But it is still over two years away, so I have to deal with this no-Heather thing for a little longer :( . . . and to that I say: FTS
- O yeah. . . a quick aside about basketball. This one is about me though. I have been playing basketball almost every weekend (either by myself or with a bunch of people at the park) and am loving the excercise. Not only have stories risen from the fun (BEAT TEAM!!! -- That's for literally one person to understand!) but I am always improving my game (especially with the amount of ball I'm watching!). George has actually been in town both of the last two weekends and we have played one-on-one each time. We are pretty even players skill-wise, so it is extremely competitive and brings out lots of: a) sweat, b) swearing, c) hard work. Yep, good times. . .
- I cleaned my room this weekend! No joke! Well, it's almost all the way done, but it is certainly more presentable then it was before :D
- I know what I said about a Summer Movie Preview, but the problem is that a lot of the big summer films are losing their luster in my eyes. Besides SPIDER-MAN 3 and KNOCKED UP (the new comedy from the guys who brought us THE 40-YEAR-OLD VIRGIN), I could live without seeing the rest of this year's offerings. . . But I still will. So, until I actually do a preview (Which is unlikely. . .) here is my list in order from lowest to highest in my opinion (click the title to head to the film's info page!)
20. SUPERBAD (08/17) - written by KNOCKED UP star Seth Rogen
19. BUG (05/25) - crazy psychological thriller
18. SURF'S UP (06/08) - surfing animated penguins
17. 1408 (07/13) - starring John Cusack!
16. TALK TO ME (07/20) - starring Don Cheadle
15. THE INVASION (08/17) - a remake starring Daniel Craig
14. LIVE FREE OR DIE HARD (06/29) - the fourth DIE HARD film (maybe rated PG-13!)
13. CHARLIE BARTLETT (08/03) - Robert Downey Jr. baby!!!
12. THE EX (05/11) - darkish comedy starring Zach Braff
11. FANBOYS (08/17) - a must-see for any STAR WARS fan
10. PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: AT WORLDS END (05/25) - not nearly as excited after disappointment of the second film
09. TRANSFORMERS (07/04) - looks pretty good, but Michael Bay directed it. . .
08. 28 WEEKS LATER (05/11) - sequel to the great Danny Boyle film 28 DAYS LATER
07. EVAN ALMIGHTY (06/22) - love Steve Carell!
06. HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER OF THE PHOENIX (07/13) - looks dark, cool, and exciting. . . can't ask for much more!
05. LICENSE TO WED (07/04) - marriage comedy starring Robin Williams as a priest and THE OFFICE's John Krasinski and Mandy Moore as the groom-and-bride-to-be
04. THE BOURNE ULTIMATUM (08/03) - final Jason Bourne film?
03. OCEAN'S 13 (06/08) - looks MUCH better than OCEAN'S 12
02. KNOCKED UP (06/01) - looks absolutely hilarious!
01. SPIDER-MAN 3 (05/04) - no contest. . . although the so-so reviews scare me. .
- Now onto the work front: I am quitting BJ's. Yes, I know I have been there barely a month. Yes, I realize I have only worked one "real" (meaning since we have been open) shift. Yes, I understand that it will PROBABLY get better over time (although right now the Server Assistants are making practically nothing compared to the amount of work we do) . . .
However. . .
FTS!!!
I worked on Saturday from 1500-2330 and it was an absolutlely terrible eight hours. Terrible! I dreaded going into work and I was right to think that. I can't explain it to anyone who is not working there though. Everyone that I've talked it over with at BJ's (former servers at JC's that moved over to BJ's) agrees with me and wishes they could do the same (they have to stick it out because of responsibilities and such). . .
So, I'm gonna do it.
It comes down to this, plain and simple-like: I'm not happy at the job. Period. End of story. Sure, I know that in the future I may not like a job and won't be able to quit or whatever. Well you know what? That's right: FTS! I can quit this job. I have another one! And I don't have time for this one right now - - I'll still go eat there (and will advise others to do the same) but BJ's is not the place for me to be employed. It's just not. . .
- Wow! It's 0100! I better get to sleep! Gotta work at the FL tomorrow (or today. . .)
Happy Anniversary Parents - - 24 years, right? Congratulations!
Goodnight all - - -
Well this past week has been good. . . and bad. Mostly bad. But good too. . . Anyway, onto the Grab-Bag, and as always (wow, it's been awhile since I've said this. . .) expect the wonderful unchronological goodness:
- Well I have to start with the title and its meaning. The T stands for the this/that and the other two letters stand for profanities. Get it? Got it. Good.
- I basically had that mentality several times during the weekend that has just been completed. It happened mostly during work at BJ's (which, believe me, I will get to momentarily) but also during a recliner-kicking, folder-throwing loss (because, well, that's what I did after the game) by my SUNS. What a tough game. . . We are now in the second round against the Spurs and today was Game 1. We lost 111-106 after an unbelievably competitive game that featured lead change after lead change. Unfortunately, our MVP Steve Nash got a nasty cut on his nose with a little under three minutes left (from a nasty collision with Spurs guard Tony Parker - that's Mr. Eva Longoria to you). This did not seem that bad at first and Nash actually hit a three and a layup over the next 45 seconds. But then, the bleeding would not stop! It was terrible! Nash ended up sitting the rest of the game as the training staff tried everything but taking his nose off to get it stop bleeding. See:
We ended up losing because we missed a couple shots (Note to Amare: Use the damn backboard!!!) and our general was not on the floor at crunch time. That's it. Game 2 is a must-win for us and then we have to steal one in San Antonio to get back the home court advantage. . . I think we win the series in seven games. . . but who knows! Also, here are my other second round predictions: Warriors over the Jazz in six games, Nets over the Cavs in six games, and the Pistons over the Bulls in five games.
- Enough basketball (well, not really - - in my mind, there is NEVER enough basketball!) for now. On to my lack of Heather-time. It has now been one week since we have seen each other and it will continue through Thursday night. I am taking Aimee down to Arclight to see SPIDER-MAN 3 (don't tell me anything - - I was apparently the only American not to see it this weekend!) on Thursday (for HER birthday but on MY birthday - - confused?) and Heather is meeting us there! I'm excited! I am also excited to report that whenever we decide to get married (which is looking more and more like 2009. . . woohoo!) that we have ourselves a minister. Dr. Roland, my favorite teacher from high school besides Mr. Thomas, and I had lunch on Thursday of last week. I had wanted to ask his advice about my and Heather's situation and all that jazz as well as ask him if he could actually perform the ceremony, whenever that might be. He said he would be "honored" (when it's actually the other way around) and would even "pay his own way to get wherever it was we got married" (if it was far away). I couldn't be happier about that. . . But it is still over two years away, so I have to deal with this no-Heather thing for a little longer :( . . . and to that I say: FTS
- O yeah. . . a quick aside about basketball. This one is about me though. I have been playing basketball almost every weekend (either by myself or with a bunch of people at the park) and am loving the excercise. Not only have stories risen from the fun (BEAT TEAM!!! -- That's for literally one person to understand!) but I am always improving my game (especially with the amount of ball I'm watching!). George has actually been in town both of the last two weekends and we have played one-on-one each time. We are pretty even players skill-wise, so it is extremely competitive and brings out lots of: a) sweat, b) swearing, c) hard work. Yep, good times. . .
- I cleaned my room this weekend! No joke! Well, it's almost all the way done, but it is certainly more presentable then it was before :D
- I know what I said about a Summer Movie Preview, but the problem is that a lot of the big summer films are losing their luster in my eyes. Besides SPIDER-MAN 3 and KNOCKED UP (the new comedy from the guys who brought us THE 40-YEAR-OLD VIRGIN), I could live without seeing the rest of this year's offerings. . . But I still will. So, until I actually do a preview (Which is unlikely. . .) here is my list in order from lowest to highest in my opinion (click the title to head to the film's info page!)
20. SUPERBAD (08/17) - written by KNOCKED UP star Seth Rogen
19. BUG (05/25) - crazy psychological thriller
18. SURF'S UP (06/08) - surfing animated penguins
17. 1408 (07/13) - starring John Cusack!
16. TALK TO ME (07/20) - starring Don Cheadle
15. THE INVASION (08/17) - a remake starring Daniel Craig
14. LIVE FREE OR DIE HARD (06/29) - the fourth DIE HARD film (maybe rated PG-13!)
13. CHARLIE BARTLETT (08/03) - Robert Downey Jr. baby!!!
12. THE EX (05/11) - darkish comedy starring Zach Braff
11. FANBOYS (08/17) - a must-see for any STAR WARS fan
10. PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: AT WORLDS END (05/25) - not nearly as excited after disappointment of the second film
09. TRANSFORMERS (07/04) - looks pretty good, but Michael Bay directed it. . .
08. 28 WEEKS LATER (05/11) - sequel to the great Danny Boyle film 28 DAYS LATER
07. EVAN ALMIGHTY (06/22) - love Steve Carell!
06. HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER OF THE PHOENIX (07/13) - looks dark, cool, and exciting. . . can't ask for much more!
05. LICENSE TO WED (07/04) - marriage comedy starring Robin Williams as a priest and THE OFFICE's John Krasinski and Mandy Moore as the groom-and-bride-to-be
04. THE BOURNE ULTIMATUM (08/03) - final Jason Bourne film?
03. OCEAN'S 13 (06/08) - looks MUCH better than OCEAN'S 12
02. KNOCKED UP (06/01) - looks absolutely hilarious!
01. SPIDER-MAN 3 (05/04) - no contest. . . although the so-so reviews scare me. .
- Now onto the work front: I am quitting BJ's. Yes, I know I have been there barely a month. Yes, I realize I have only worked one "real" (meaning since we have been open) shift. Yes, I understand that it will PROBABLY get better over time (although right now the Server Assistants are making practically nothing compared to the amount of work we do) . . .
However. . .
FTS!!!
I worked on Saturday from 1500-2330 and it was an absolutlely terrible eight hours. Terrible! I dreaded going into work and I was right to think that. I can't explain it to anyone who is not working there though. Everyone that I've talked it over with at BJ's (former servers at JC's that moved over to BJ's) agrees with me and wishes they could do the same (they have to stick it out because of responsibilities and such). . .
So, I'm gonna do it.
It comes down to this, plain and simple-like: I'm not happy at the job. Period. End of story. Sure, I know that in the future I may not like a job and won't be able to quit or whatever. Well you know what? That's right: FTS! I can quit this job. I have another one! And I don't have time for this one right now - - I'll still go eat there (and will advise others to do the same) but BJ's is not the place for me to be employed. It's just not. . .
- Wow! It's 0100! I better get to sleep! Gotta work at the FL tomorrow (or today. . .)
Happy Anniversary Parents - - 24 years, right? Congratulations!
Goodnight all - - -
Monday, April 30, 2007
The Weekend Grab-Bag:
The "On the Job" Version
Well it's Monday night/Tuesday morning and I am well awake. It's 0030. Sleep is not in my near future. I figured since that was true, I would at least blog about my weekend and fill you in on some thoughts I've been having recently.
And away we go. . .
- First, let me assess the NBA playoffs. If you don't like the NBA (or basketball - which, if that's the case, shame on you. . .) then skip to the next dash/section. . . When I last blogged, my SUNS were at halftime of an eventual loss. They picked up the pieces and demolished the Lakers in Game 4 (behind a 27 point/21 rebound game from Amare and a 17 point/23 assist game from Nash). I firmly believe that we take care of business on Wednesday at home and end the Lakers' season after five games. We are gonna play the Spurs, who have squeaked by the Nuggets three times to take a 3-1 lead heading back to San Antonio. It's gonna be a tough series but if we win, I believe that the Finals will be ours to lose. The biggest reason is that Dallas, the 67-15 team that dominated the regular season, is on the verge of elimination thanks to a tremendous effort from the upstart Golden State Warriors. I think the Warriors take care of business back home in Game 6 after a Dallas blowout in Game 5. The Warriors will beat the Houston Rockets in the second round after they beat the Jazz in a low-scoring Game 7 to win their first round battle. We will take down the Cinderella Warriors (oxymoronic, no?) in six high-scoring battles (one of which will go into double overtime and result in at least 300 total points) and represent the Western Conference in the NBA Finals! We will play the Detroit Pistons who will beat the Baby Bulls in five games. Yes, the Bulls swept the defending champ Heat. The Heat are also a terrible team with a broken down superstar. The Nets might just sweep the overrated Cavs (who swept an undermanned Wizards by winning no game by double digits) after they get rid of the Raptors in six games. The Pistons will then coast by the Nets in no more than six games. They are the team to beat out East. Once we meet them in the Finals, we will be more than ready to bring back the first-ever championship trophy to Phoenix. I think we beat the Pistons in six games with the speedy Leandro Barbosa winning the Finals MVP. . . Now we'll just have to wait and watch that happen. But you heard it here first!
- I've been working a lot! Training was in full swing over at BJ's this past weekend as we hosted several invitation-only lunches and dinners. The guests were given free meals (not free alcohol, though!) in order to deal with our training. We did a good job (I thought) and we are ready to open on Wednesday of this week. However, when I was working on Sunday night (a night which I really did not feel like working) I started to feel something. This thing I was feeling was not good. I was slowly hating my job. A lot of it had to do with the power-tripping trainers who make it a habit to make you feel about an inch tall with their strict "by the book" ways. The things that they have us do are so particular that it is driving me crazy. It's the "small things" that are very silly, but are a way of doing things at BJ's and thus must be done. It's policy. Plus, I have yet to feel in my "zone" that I would get in while cleaning tables at Johnny Carino's. A couple things: 1) This just might not be the restaurant for me - just because I'm good at bussing (and I am, actually) does not mean that I will flourish in every restaurant. 2) I am not happy.
And that is the problem. I'm not happy. I have three jobs (Finish Line, BJ's, student) and I despise all of them. Sure, there are parts of each that I enjoy, but on the whole, I cannot stand doing anything in relation to these things. This got me thinking. What makes me happy? . .
- So here is a list of all of my jobs (you will see that I actually have more than three) and my evaluation of how I am doing with all of them:
FINISH LINE: I have been working there since December and for the last three months or so I have been the best salesperson out of the Sales Associates. Our numbers are tracked each week and the two biggest numbers are the accessories percentage (these are hats, laces, socks, cleaners) and the multiples percentage (purchases that contain more than one item). The weekly goal is usually 8.5% for accessories and 50% for multiples. I usually carry at least 10% in accessories adn my multiples are almost always over 60%. Today, for instance, I left with a 13% and 80%. It was a great day! However, I can't stand the monotony of selling shoes. I have decided that at least 75% of the people who enter our store either a) know exactly what they want already or b) want nothing. It's hard to be a great salesperson when people are either not wanting more items (regardless of the fact that our bags of socks are buy one get one free!) or can't speak English and don't really want any zapatos (or only want them if they cost next to nothing). The sooner I get out of this job the better - the only thing I will miss is the discount.
BJ's: It's hard to say how this job is going to be. Once I start making the money (I hope I hope I hope!!!) I might like it more and realize why I got back in the restaurant business. But last night as I trudged around wanting to take my apron off and walk outside for good, I realized what the problem was: I don't want to clean tables! Sure, I left JC because of the scheduling and Charlie and all that jazz, but it really boiled down to the fact that I did not want to clean another table. And now, that's all I'm doing. Again. How did this happen!?! Hopefully this one gets better, but I am just not feeling this restaurant. It's just not for me. . .
STUDENT: The hardest thing about the last two semesters has been Heather's involvement at her school, Cal Poly Pomona. She has been taking classes for her major: Animal Handling, Animal Care, etc. I have been taking General freakin Education! Yes, I have been on the paper for two semesters. But I don't really want to write for a paper (not a very lucrative job, reporting. . .). It's hard to get excited for school twice a week when one of those days includes a three hour tribute to William Shakespeare and his overrated comedies and sonnets. I am really hoping that school is going to get better when I get to CSUN and I join the radio station (if I can) or follow the basketball team around as an announcer or beat writer (if it's doable) or something of that sort. That's what I want to do. But I can't. Not yet.
BOYFRIEND: The thing I am best at. I think. Heather and I have been together for over three years and I feel like I do a good job at being a good partner. I do everything in my power to please Heather and make her feel comfortable with me. We mesh extremely well (shockingly so) and there is no reason to doubt us as being ready for the future. However. . . We have been having a lot of discussions about marriage and when that is possible. It seems that we have two options: 1) The summer of 2009 after we both graduate from our 4-year universities; 2) after 2013 when she (hopefully) graduates from Veterinarian School. Those are two very different years. 2009 is in two years. True, we are both 20 now (or I will be in a few days) and that is rather young to be thinking about this. However, in 2009, we will be 22 and that is not a terrible age to be married. . . We want to do it. We know it will be hard the first four years since she will be in Vet School and I will be working my initial job out of college (whatever that is). But we would be together. That is what we both want and shouldn't that be enough? I know that we won't get full support for that idea, but we feel like there are no other desireable options (e.g. waiting for 2013, a full six years from now - that would mean we would date for at least 9 years before getting married!). So we will see. . . But maybe save a date in June/July of 2009. You never know. . . I'll keep you in the know (wink, wink)
BROTHER: I think I'm a pretty good older brother, but I'm not the best. Aimee (who turns 15 in - gasp - three days) and I are best friends at this point and I cant be happier about that. No one makes me laugh harder than her and we share a lot of the same viewpoints and a sense of humor. I'm not worried about her and I. I worry about Caleb. The two of us bicker more than anything else (it's a little difficult for a 20-year-old and an almost 6-year-old to be bestest buddies - there's a reason you hang out with people your age!). I love the kid and would do anything for him - sure. He admires me and models a lot of his actions after me - shit. But the age difference is such that it really hurts our relationship right now. I see us becoming closer when he is in his mid teens and I am almost 30. But until then, I guess I'll have to enjoy those few moments when we enjoy each other's company and make each other belly laugh.
SON: I hear I am pretty good at this one. Who knows? It's funny knowing that two of my four readers are my parents. . . and the other two are my grandparents! (That's a joke of course, but I don't really know who else reads this blog - - - commenting is pretty easy people. . .) I have good relationships with my parents and I can learn a lot from each of them. But I also get annoyed like anyone else would when you live under the same roof as someone for year after year. It is bound to happen. I respect their authority and I listen to what they have to say. I do as I'm told (most of the time. . . haha!) and I work hard to make sure they don't regret letting me stay home. I can't do much more than that. . .
CHRISTIAN: I used to characterize myself as this. Now? I'm not so sure. . . (and this is where the trouble comes in). . . Do I believe the things that I have been taught since toddler-age? Yeah. I believe that a higher being must have created all of the Earth's greatness (not to mention the millions of galaxies outside of our Earth). I believe that a guy named Jesus was born and did his thing while he was here before dying by way of Roman crucifixion. I also believe that one thing he taught was freedom and choice. I think that people should not judge others for having other beliefs. Critical Christians are probably the worst people on the planet. These are the people that make me reconsider the whole faith if that is what the religion turns you into. I know it's not - - but the evidence is glaring. Again, as with BJ's, it is the particulars that get me. People who swear are not necessarily bad people. They may be less educated (I have always seen profanity use as a lack of accessibility to better diction - even in my own case) but are certainly not worse because of their word choice. Someone should not be cast out because of their mouth. Or their lifestyle. I have met some legitimately fantastic people outside of my little Christian bubble that I grew up in. And by a certain book, these people are going to spend forever in a warm vacation spot (and no, I don't mean the Caribbean). Some of these people are the sweetest, most talented, and perfectly wonderful people that I have ever met (Don Bachardy, the world-renowned painter, comes to mind right away).
I was thinking about something today: Maybe the reason I am not happy is that I have abandoned the faith that I knew so well back in high school. I avoid church Sunday (I don't feel like I belong) and I don't pray unless I need some help (or if the SUNS are in a tight game. . .). The good and bad things happen the same as they would anyway because I am still a good person. I do good things because I am a pretty good guy - and I reap benefits because of it. It's like karma (thanks Earl. . .) but I think that's a silly word. It's just give and take. You water the garden, something is gonna grow. I know my whole family would probably be upset at me (I guess we'll see - - this has all now been published) but I can't deny the place that I'm in right now. I've said it before (but I don't think I have here): In this time, for my generation, it is extremely difficult to be so self-centered (which we have to be to get anywhere in this world) and so God-centered at the same time. It's not possible. And right now, I've chosen myself. For this time period, I am focused on me and the people around me - my loved ones. I want life - this time we have right now - to be everything that God wants it to be for all of us. When I finally ask for his help - he'll be there. I know that (I've been taught it all my life). But for now, I'm me-focused and that's all that I'm strong enough to do. . . Sorry.
- If you got through all of that, then you are incredible. Let me know what you think. Yes, that means you grandparents, parents, friends, everyone - if I'm wrong, then tell me! I just opened my heart wide open and let you into my deepest thoughts/beliefs. The least you can do is give me your two cents - - and remember, it is now 0200. I may not be completely fluent, but you get the gist of what I am saying - I'll add an addendum in the next day or two after I get some feedback - so please feed me back :D
- A quick movie recommendation: DISTURBIA. It was a very skillfully made thriller that was mostly buildup (but I liked the buildup dangit!) but still a quality film. Check it out! (Grade: B)
Well I'm gonna go to bed - maybe. I don't know if I should just stay up tonight.
Remember to comment - it's really VERY simple - and I'll holler at you in a couple days!
Goodnight,
And away we go. . .
- First, let me assess the NBA playoffs. If you don't like the NBA (or basketball - which, if that's the case, shame on you. . .) then skip to the next dash/section. . . When I last blogged, my SUNS were at halftime of an eventual loss. They picked up the pieces and demolished the Lakers in Game 4 (behind a 27 point/21 rebound game from Amare and a 17 point/23 assist game from Nash). I firmly believe that we take care of business on Wednesday at home and end the Lakers' season after five games. We are gonna play the Spurs, who have squeaked by the Nuggets three times to take a 3-1 lead heading back to San Antonio. It's gonna be a tough series but if we win, I believe that the Finals will be ours to lose. The biggest reason is that Dallas, the 67-15 team that dominated the regular season, is on the verge of elimination thanks to a tremendous effort from the upstart Golden State Warriors. I think the Warriors take care of business back home in Game 6 after a Dallas blowout in Game 5. The Warriors will beat the Houston Rockets in the second round after they beat the Jazz in a low-scoring Game 7 to win their first round battle. We will take down the Cinderella Warriors (oxymoronic, no?) in six high-scoring battles (one of which will go into double overtime and result in at least 300 total points) and represent the Western Conference in the NBA Finals! We will play the Detroit Pistons who will beat the Baby Bulls in five games. Yes, the Bulls swept the defending champ Heat. The Heat are also a terrible team with a broken down superstar. The Nets might just sweep the overrated Cavs (who swept an undermanned Wizards by winning no game by double digits) after they get rid of the Raptors in six games. The Pistons will then coast by the Nets in no more than six games. They are the team to beat out East. Once we meet them in the Finals, we will be more than ready to bring back the first-ever championship trophy to Phoenix. I think we beat the Pistons in six games with the speedy Leandro Barbosa winning the Finals MVP. . . Now we'll just have to wait and watch that happen. But you heard it here first!
- I've been working a lot! Training was in full swing over at BJ's this past weekend as we hosted several invitation-only lunches and dinners. The guests were given free meals (not free alcohol, though!) in order to deal with our training. We did a good job (I thought) and we are ready to open on Wednesday of this week. However, when I was working on Sunday night (a night which I really did not feel like working) I started to feel something. This thing I was feeling was not good. I was slowly hating my job. A lot of it had to do with the power-tripping trainers who make it a habit to make you feel about an inch tall with their strict "by the book" ways. The things that they have us do are so particular that it is driving me crazy. It's the "small things" that are very silly, but are a way of doing things at BJ's and thus must be done. It's policy. Plus, I have yet to feel in my "zone" that I would get in while cleaning tables at Johnny Carino's. A couple things: 1) This just might not be the restaurant for me - just because I'm good at bussing (and I am, actually) does not mean that I will flourish in every restaurant. 2) I am not happy.
And that is the problem. I'm not happy. I have three jobs (Finish Line, BJ's, student) and I despise all of them. Sure, there are parts of each that I enjoy, but on the whole, I cannot stand doing anything in relation to these things. This got me thinking. What makes me happy? . .
- So here is a list of all of my jobs (you will see that I actually have more than three) and my evaluation of how I am doing with all of them:
FINISH LINE: I have been working there since December and for the last three months or so I have been the best salesperson out of the Sales Associates. Our numbers are tracked each week and the two biggest numbers are the accessories percentage (these are hats, laces, socks, cleaners) and the multiples percentage (purchases that contain more than one item). The weekly goal is usually 8.5% for accessories and 50% for multiples. I usually carry at least 10% in accessories adn my multiples are almost always over 60%. Today, for instance, I left with a 13% and 80%. It was a great day! However, I can't stand the monotony of selling shoes. I have decided that at least 75% of the people who enter our store either a) know exactly what they want already or b) want nothing. It's hard to be a great salesperson when people are either not wanting more items (regardless of the fact that our bags of socks are buy one get one free!) or can't speak English and don't really want any zapatos (or only want them if they cost next to nothing). The sooner I get out of this job the better - the only thing I will miss is the discount.
BJ's: It's hard to say how this job is going to be. Once I start making the money (I hope I hope I hope!!!) I might like it more and realize why I got back in the restaurant business. But last night as I trudged around wanting to take my apron off and walk outside for good, I realized what the problem was: I don't want to clean tables! Sure, I left JC because of the scheduling and Charlie and all that jazz, but it really boiled down to the fact that I did not want to clean another table. And now, that's all I'm doing. Again. How did this happen!?! Hopefully this one gets better, but I am just not feeling this restaurant. It's just not for me. . .
STUDENT: The hardest thing about the last two semesters has been Heather's involvement at her school, Cal Poly Pomona. She has been taking classes for her major: Animal Handling, Animal Care, etc. I have been taking General freakin Education! Yes, I have been on the paper for two semesters. But I don't really want to write for a paper (not a very lucrative job, reporting. . .). It's hard to get excited for school twice a week when one of those days includes a three hour tribute to William Shakespeare and his overrated comedies and sonnets. I am really hoping that school is going to get better when I get to CSUN and I join the radio station (if I can) or follow the basketball team around as an announcer or beat writer (if it's doable) or something of that sort. That's what I want to do. But I can't. Not yet.
BOYFRIEND: The thing I am best at. I think. Heather and I have been together for over three years and I feel like I do a good job at being a good partner. I do everything in my power to please Heather and make her feel comfortable with me. We mesh extremely well (shockingly so) and there is no reason to doubt us as being ready for the future. However. . . We have been having a lot of discussions about marriage and when that is possible. It seems that we have two options: 1) The summer of 2009 after we both graduate from our 4-year universities; 2) after 2013 when she (hopefully) graduates from Veterinarian School. Those are two very different years. 2009 is in two years. True, we are both 20 now (or I will be in a few days) and that is rather young to be thinking about this. However, in 2009, we will be 22 and that is not a terrible age to be married. . . We want to do it. We know it will be hard the first four years since she will be in Vet School and I will be working my initial job out of college (whatever that is). But we would be together. That is what we both want and shouldn't that be enough? I know that we won't get full support for that idea, but we feel like there are no other desireable options (e.g. waiting for 2013, a full six years from now - that would mean we would date for at least 9 years before getting married!). So we will see. . . But maybe save a date in June/July of 2009. You never know. . . I'll keep you in the know (wink, wink)
BROTHER: I think I'm a pretty good older brother, but I'm not the best. Aimee (who turns 15 in - gasp - three days) and I are best friends at this point and I cant be happier about that. No one makes me laugh harder than her and we share a lot of the same viewpoints and a sense of humor. I'm not worried about her and I. I worry about Caleb. The two of us bicker more than anything else (it's a little difficult for a 20-year-old and an almost 6-year-old to be bestest buddies - there's a reason you hang out with people your age!). I love the kid and would do anything for him - sure. He admires me and models a lot of his actions after me - shit. But the age difference is such that it really hurts our relationship right now. I see us becoming closer when he is in his mid teens and I am almost 30. But until then, I guess I'll have to enjoy those few moments when we enjoy each other's company and make each other belly laugh.
SON: I hear I am pretty good at this one. Who knows? It's funny knowing that two of my four readers are my parents. . . and the other two are my grandparents! (That's a joke of course, but I don't really know who else reads this blog - - - commenting is pretty easy people. . .) I have good relationships with my parents and I can learn a lot from each of them. But I also get annoyed like anyone else would when you live under the same roof as someone for year after year. It is bound to happen. I respect their authority and I listen to what they have to say. I do as I'm told (most of the time. . . haha!) and I work hard to make sure they don't regret letting me stay home. I can't do much more than that. . .
CHRISTIAN: I used to characterize myself as this. Now? I'm not so sure. . . (and this is where the trouble comes in). . . Do I believe the things that I have been taught since toddler-age? Yeah. I believe that a higher being must have created all of the Earth's greatness (not to mention the millions of galaxies outside of our Earth). I believe that a guy named Jesus was born and did his thing while he was here before dying by way of Roman crucifixion. I also believe that one thing he taught was freedom and choice. I think that people should not judge others for having other beliefs. Critical Christians are probably the worst people on the planet. These are the people that make me reconsider the whole faith if that is what the religion turns you into. I know it's not - - but the evidence is glaring. Again, as with BJ's, it is the particulars that get me. People who swear are not necessarily bad people. They may be less educated (I have always seen profanity use as a lack of accessibility to better diction - even in my own case) but are certainly not worse because of their word choice. Someone should not be cast out because of their mouth. Or their lifestyle. I have met some legitimately fantastic people outside of my little Christian bubble that I grew up in. And by a certain book, these people are going to spend forever in a warm vacation spot (and no, I don't mean the Caribbean). Some of these people are the sweetest, most talented, and perfectly wonderful people that I have ever met (Don Bachardy, the world-renowned painter, comes to mind right away).
I was thinking about something today: Maybe the reason I am not happy is that I have abandoned the faith that I knew so well back in high school. I avoid church Sunday (I don't feel like I belong) and I don't pray unless I need some help (or if the SUNS are in a tight game. . .). The good and bad things happen the same as they would anyway because I am still a good person. I do good things because I am a pretty good guy - and I reap benefits because of it. It's like karma (thanks Earl. . .) but I think that's a silly word. It's just give and take. You water the garden, something is gonna grow. I know my whole family would probably be upset at me (I guess we'll see - - this has all now been published) but I can't deny the place that I'm in right now. I've said it before (but I don't think I have here): In this time, for my generation, it is extremely difficult to be so self-centered (which we have to be to get anywhere in this world) and so God-centered at the same time. It's not possible. And right now, I've chosen myself. For this time period, I am focused on me and the people around me - my loved ones. I want life - this time we have right now - to be everything that God wants it to be for all of us. When I finally ask for his help - he'll be there. I know that (I've been taught it all my life). But for now, I'm me-focused and that's all that I'm strong enough to do. . . Sorry.
- If you got through all of that, then you are incredible. Let me know what you think. Yes, that means you grandparents, parents, friends, everyone - if I'm wrong, then tell me! I just opened my heart wide open and let you into my deepest thoughts/beliefs. The least you can do is give me your two cents - - and remember, it is now 0200. I may not be completely fluent, but you get the gist of what I am saying - I'll add an addendum in the next day or two after I get some feedback - so please feed me back :D
- A quick movie recommendation: DISTURBIA. It was a very skillfully made thriller that was mostly buildup (but I liked the buildup dangit!) but still a quality film. Check it out! (Grade: B)
Well I'm gonna go to bed - maybe. I don't know if I should just stay up tonight.
Remember to comment - it's really VERY simple - and I'll holler at you in a couple days!
Goodnight,
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Hitting a Wall
Its halftime right now of Game 3 of the SUNS/LAKERS series (which we are winning two games to none right now) and my team's bipolar nature is pissing me the hell off! We started out up 11-0 and held a lead as big as 31-14. It's now 51-48 at halftime and they have all the momentum. . .
Sometime, I just can't stand my team. . .
Where did this wall come from that we have so violently hit? It's like we forgot how to play basketball. . . I can relate, though. My schedule is hitting me hard and that wall has now been installed directly in front of me.
I do apologize for the lack of posting recently. I have been really busy (of course - it's me, right?) and that has led to a lack of a desire to blog. I have had a few opportunities, but I just haven't wanted to due to a large amount of apathy present in yours truly. So, sorry.
Things are good, but busy, like I mentioned. Training has been going strong over at BJ's and the FL is as good as always. School is getting down to the nitty gritty (five weeks left!). I have so many papers/assignments/tests over the next five weeks that I am almost guaranteeing (spelling?) carpal tunnel for my wrists (especially with all the trays I'll be carrying to the dishwashing room. . .).
Something I wish was not true was the lack of movie-going experiences I've had. The last film I saw was GRINDHOUSE back on the 9th and I have yet to see some movies that look really interesting to me (DISTURBIA, FRACTURE, and HOT FUZZ!). Plus, SPIDER-MAN 3 comes out next week and I don't know when I am going to be seeing that (I want to take Aimee down to Arclight to see it for her birthday - the 4th - but I have yet to receive my schedule at BJ's for the next two weeks).
A few things before I stop (second half is about to start. . .):
- The new issue of the paper is out. If you are around AVC, pick one up. Page 9 is really good :D
- I got an A on that midterm essay thing about the Shakespearean sonnets (I talked about it in the last post). Yes, I am the KING of B.S.ing!!! All hail me! (I also got a C on the 10 Things essay - which I'm fine with)
- GO SUNS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Night for now,
Sometime, I just can't stand my team. . .
Where did this wall come from that we have so violently hit? It's like we forgot how to play basketball. . . I can relate, though. My schedule is hitting me hard and that wall has now been installed directly in front of me.
I do apologize for the lack of posting recently. I have been really busy (of course - it's me, right?) and that has led to a lack of a desire to blog. I have had a few opportunities, but I just haven't wanted to due to a large amount of apathy present in yours truly. So, sorry.
Things are good, but busy, like I mentioned. Training has been going strong over at BJ's and the FL is as good as always. School is getting down to the nitty gritty (five weeks left!). I have so many papers/assignments/tests over the next five weeks that I am almost guaranteeing (spelling?) carpal tunnel for my wrists (especially with all the trays I'll be carrying to the dishwashing room. . .).
Something I wish was not true was the lack of movie-going experiences I've had. The last film I saw was GRINDHOUSE back on the 9th and I have yet to see some movies that look really interesting to me (DISTURBIA, FRACTURE, and HOT FUZZ!). Plus, SPIDER-MAN 3 comes out next week and I don't know when I am going to be seeing that (I want to take Aimee down to Arclight to see it for her birthday - the 4th - but I have yet to receive my schedule at BJ's for the next two weeks).
A few things before I stop (second half is about to start. . .):
- The new issue of the paper is out. If you are around AVC, pick one up. Page 9 is really good :D
- I got an A on that midterm essay thing about the Shakespearean sonnets (I talked about it in the last post). Yes, I am the KING of B.S.ing!!! All hail me! (I also got a C on the 10 Things essay - which I'm fine with)
- GO SUNS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Night for now,
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