So you see the post is from Friday, but if you look at the end of this here post, you'll see that it's actually very early on Friday. It's almost 0200 now. Wow. I got a lot on the ol' mind, so if you'll so indulge me, I'd like to rattle off some new fangled information and other interesting tidbits and all that type of jazz...
- The countdown (a very melancholy one) to Heather's departure for "Down Under" is now at less than seven. I'm not sure how I'm gonna do while she's gone. Five weeks is a really long time without seeing the person you love the mostest. I'm also not sure how much we'll even be able to communicate. With the amount of stuff she is going to be doing while on this voyage, she will have limited access to a communicative outlet. Not even talking to my girl - now I have issues. Tonight at work, I was trying to convince a co-worker that I have absolutely nothing to worry about when it comes to Heather being in Australia with good-looking (and, to women, good-sounding) Aussies and an 18-year drinking age. I told him to look at my eyes (completely regular; no dilation, blinking, or redness) and see if he saw fear in them. I also explained that our relationship hinges on a little thing called "Trust". You might have heard of it. The only thing I'm worried about is the level of insanity I'm gonna be reaching by about week three.
- Thanks to the four of you (yes, my friends, I said "four") who commented on my last post. That was such a shot of motivation to continue blogging for awhile! O man I was happy getting those e-mails! Responses: 1) To Mom-mom and Pop - yes it is awesome to have such a wonderful girlfriend. I'm very lucky to have her and I'm even luckier to have had her fit so snuggly into my family. 2) To Dad - yes, you do get a prize. It's called another post :D (and maybe a shake very soon). 3) To Aimee Doots - Thanks for the TIN there. You know my annoyances well. And you're rockin' the b-ball. Keep it up! 4) To Natalia - I think you wanted to have even more Justin blogging to catch up on! Ha!! Welcome back (kinda). Hope San Marcos is treating you well.
- I worked Wednesday night and tonight. Hours: about 13. Dolares: about $170. Breaks: worked through them. Tired: You betcha.
- I just watched the last half of THE 40-YEAR-OLD VIRGIN on HBO. I absolutely love this movie! It's pretty rough in patches (that "R" rating is earned) but what a heartfelt, honest, funny movie! This one is on my All-Time list for Comedies for sure.
- An exciting announcement: Mr. Devin Thomas, the former DESERT CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL Boys Varsity basketball coach and present Girls Varsity basketball coach, has a new second assistant coach for the 2006-07 season. That's right, folks, it's the Rambler himself. With the amount of time and effort I've already put forth this summer into the girls' practices, Mr. Thomas asked me yesterday if I'd like to join his staff during the season. It works out perfectly for all intents and purposes. The season usually kicks into gear around the first and second week of December. This is when my Fall semester (more on that later) ends. Games usually run through January and into the first couple weeks of February. Playoffs usually begin around Valentine's Day. This is when the Spring semester begins. Isn't that awesome!?! SO, when the time comes, I'm going to be able to go into JOHNNY CARINO's and request certain days/times off so that I can be at my other job. That's cool to me. I'm very honored to be asked by my second basketball mentor (the papa is the original teacher) to help him train young ladies in the ways of the force..er.. basketball. Sorry, I got carried away. I'm excited!
- I forgot to mention last time that I also saw PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MAN'S CHEST last week (along with about half of America). Congrats to the makers and contributors to the film. While the film is not nearly as good as the original (a second viewing in a few hours may shed some new light on it for me - I'm going with Aimee so she can see it and Heather is joining us), the much-anticipated sequel destroyed box office records this past weekend. Overall, it's a mandatory experience if you saw and enjoyed Part I and it's not a tedious necessary assignment. It's fun, exciting, and action-packed (especially the last hour). It ends suddenly (with cliff-hangers and surprises) but that's just a lead-in to next Summer's final film in the trilogy POTC: WORLD'S END (tentative title of course). Good stuff overall. I can't really complain when I get to watch Johnny Depp for two and a half hours (wait, I meant that in a completely and utterly straight manner. . .). Grade: B+
- So I registered for classes for the Fall 2006 semester at ANTELOPE VALLEY COLLEGE on Tuesday. I'm gonna be a busy sonofagun (break it down slowly...) come September (well August actually, but yeah, you get the gist). Here is my schedule: (the H means it's an Honors class and the name is obviously the teacher's name...)
MONDAY
(H) Biology 101 (lecture): 1230-1350 Feickert
Biology 101 (lab): 1415-1720 Riley
TUESDAY
Communications 121: 0930-1050 Carter
History 118: 1100-1220 Jaffe
WEDNESDAY
(H) Biology 101 (lecture): 1230-1350 Feickert
(H) English 102: 1545-1850 Toth
THURSDAY
Communications 121: 0930-1050 Carter
History 118: 1100-1220 Jaffe
Psychology 101 Online
Wow, huh?
- I'm really not that tired and it's now 0230. That'll change in about a half-hour. I'm just predicting, that's all.
- I'm trying to get a picture on here, but it's not working. If I can't figure it out, then here is a link to a really cool set of pictures of a sky that features both a rainbow and lightning strikes. Don't believe me? http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/news/news.html?in_article_id=395512&in_page_id=1770
- Roger Ebert is in stable condition after undergoing emergency surgery last week. I am publicly wishing the quintessential film critic a speedy recovery and a million more reviews that I can read eagerly every Friday morning.
- News out of Las Vegas (the sight of one of the NBA Summer Leagues for free agents, undrafted rookies, and rehabbing players) has Amare Stoudemire, the main man in the middle (Actually, all over) for my beloved Phoenix Suns, performing well on his surgically-repaired knees. Good news for me and my boys, who are suddenly becoming the trendy title pick for next season. Let's just hope they don't disappoint (God knows they have done that enough!).
- The song "Wouldn't It Be Nice" by The Beach Boys is the song that most defines mine and Heather's relationship. Just thought you'd like to know.
- Blogging is a lot of work. Especially when I do it. Also just a thought for you...
- I'm looking for a hat store that sells a SUNS hat. I don't know why I want a hat, but I do. No hat store around here sells SUNS hats (I do live just outside of frickin' Los Angeles!) and I don't want to go online and buy one because I don't know my dang head size (only a fitted hat will do). This is my present predicament.
- I got a SEGA GENESIS. Yes, you read that right, and yes, it's still 2006 (not 1996 like you thought when you read that haha). Over the past couple months, you have read that Justin and I have been playing a lot of NINTENDO 64 and some of the older, more-fun games (better graphics does not always equal better gameplay). So, on a sortof whim, I bid on and won a GENESIS package (including 15 games - among them NBA JAM: TOURNAMENT EDITION, MORTAL KOMBAT 2, and STREET FIGHTER 2 - three controllers, and all the plugs/cords) for $47.47 including shipping (and that price is not a joke - I swear it was that exactly!). I have tried out some of the games by myself but it's the multi-player action that I'm really looking forward to. Old school gamin' baby!
- Two "Meh....Crap" movies come out this week (YOU, ME, AND DUPREE and LITTLE MAN) but next week, three films hit the theatres that appear on my Must-See List (CLERKS 2, MY SUPER EX-GIRLFRIEND, LADY IN THE WATER). To quote a great old SNL skit, "Who are the Ad-Wizards who came up with that one?"
- Right now I'm going to go back up to the top of this here post and work my way back down, bolding and italicising where necessary. This is what takes a long time... That took me seven minutes. Told ya.
Well all, I'm pretty spent now. It's just about 0300 on Friday morning and I have to get up in about six hours or so. We'll see if that happens. . . :D
I hope all of you are well and all. I would hate to think that anyone out there who takes the time to read my ramblings would be having just an iffy time of it all. Things must be ok if you can take the time to read my nonsensical nothingness. Thanks by the way for doing so. It's always appreciated!
- - -
- - -
Goodnight (or good morning, actually),
JUSTIN
Friday, July 14, 2006
Sunday, July 09, 2006
Only Set Reachable Goals
My goal, as I had stated recently, was to reach 182 posts by August 11. I need 30 more.
I don't think it's gonna happen.
I've been recently bored with the idea of blogging and the sometimes tedious nature of the activity. Have no fear, my three readers, I will be blogging with some regularity, but just not nearly as much as one would expect (or hope). I apologize, but sometimes it just doesn't work that way.
Another edit job to my SUMMER MOVIE PREVIEW: I am now switching THE LAKE HOUSE with THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA frankly because I saw DEVIL and have no intention of going to see the ill-fated Keanu romantic comedy. So with that switcheroo, and with the recent viewing of THE BREAK-UP (I saw it today), I have now seen 11 of the 25 films on that list. I'm getting there folks. Of the remaining films, only POSEIDON and NACHO LIBRE (both films that I am waiting for the $1 theatre for) have been released. O, and AN INCONVENIENT TRUTH. I'm working on it. . . So you want grades? Ok folks: THE BREAK-UP (B), CARS (B-), THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA (B-)
SO.....
All that's important right now is that Heather is home. For 10 days. Then she's off to Australia. Sad times.
Ya know, I'm again unsure about completing this post. I'll give you this much... O wait! Just because I feel bad about not posting, I figure I'll give you a little odd survey thingy that I got forwarded to me a while back. I know it's lame, but I wanna post a little more and don't care much about reviewing my last week or so. So here goes thsi thing called
FOUR THINGS:
Four jobs I've had in my life:
1. Babysitter for the sister ages ago
2. In a wherehouse packaging gel packs (Hot/Cold Packs)
3. File Clerk at a Surgery Center
4. Presently I am a Table Tender (busboy) at JOHNNY CARINO'S
Four movies I can watch over and over:
1. ADAPTATION.
2. GARDEN STATE
3. THE SINGING DETECTIVE
4. O BROTHER, WHERE ART THOU?
(Honorable Mention): COCKTAIL
Four TV shows I love to watch:
1. SCRUBS
2. THE DAILY SHOW with JON STEWART
3. PARDON THE INTERRUPTION
4. HOUSE
(Honorable Mention): HELL'S KITCHEN
Four places I've been on vacation:
1. The Gateway Arch in St. Louis
2. Times Square/Broadway
3. Washington D.C.
4. The WIZARD OF OZ museum in Kansas (no joke)
Four of my favorite dishes:
1. Lasagna
2. Carne Asada
3. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
4. Double Double at IN-N-OUT
Four websites I visit daily:
1. www.comingsoon.net
2. www.espn.com
3. http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/simmons/index
4. www.ebay.com
Four places I would rather be right now:
1. Next to Heather
2. Next to Heather
3. Basketball court
4. Movie theatre
Four CD’s that will never get old:
1. Weezer - The Blue Album
2. Jimmy Eat World - Clarity
3. Garden State Soundtrack
4. Snow Patrol - Eyes Open
Four famous people you have met: (I'm changing it to "seen")
1. Paul Haggis (writer/director of CRASH)
2. Bill Cowher (head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers)
3. Jack Nicholson (at a Lakers game - I was about five feet from him!)
4. Kevin Smith (actually, not yet - I will see him on the 21st; more on that at a later date)
Four people actually read this:
1. Dad
2. Mom-mom
3. Heather
4. Cy
There you have it - - more than just a little post! Hope it was enjoyable!
Goodnight all you out there,
Husteen
I don't think it's gonna happen.
I've been recently bored with the idea of blogging and the sometimes tedious nature of the activity. Have no fear, my three readers, I will be blogging with some regularity, but just not nearly as much as one would expect (or hope). I apologize, but sometimes it just doesn't work that way.
Another edit job to my SUMMER MOVIE PREVIEW: I am now switching THE LAKE HOUSE with THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA frankly because I saw DEVIL and have no intention of going to see the ill-fated Keanu romantic comedy. So with that switcheroo, and with the recent viewing of THE BREAK-UP (I saw it today), I have now seen 11 of the 25 films on that list. I'm getting there folks. Of the remaining films, only POSEIDON and NACHO LIBRE (both films that I am waiting for the $1 theatre for) have been released. O, and AN INCONVENIENT TRUTH. I'm working on it. . . So you want grades? Ok folks: THE BREAK-UP (B), CARS (B-), THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA (B-)
SO.....
All that's important right now is that Heather is home. For 10 days. Then she's off to Australia. Sad times.
Ya know, I'm again unsure about completing this post. I'll give you this much... O wait! Just because I feel bad about not posting, I figure I'll give you a little odd survey thingy that I got forwarded to me a while back. I know it's lame, but I wanna post a little more and don't care much about reviewing my last week or so. So here goes thsi thing called
FOUR THINGS:
Four jobs I've had in my life:
1. Babysitter for the sister ages ago
2. In a wherehouse packaging gel packs (Hot/Cold Packs)
3. File Clerk at a Surgery Center
4. Presently I am a Table Tender (busboy) at JOHNNY CARINO'S
Four movies I can watch over and over:
1. ADAPTATION.
2. GARDEN STATE
3. THE SINGING DETECTIVE
4. O BROTHER, WHERE ART THOU?
(Honorable Mention): COCKTAIL
Four TV shows I love to watch:
1. SCRUBS
2. THE DAILY SHOW with JON STEWART
3. PARDON THE INTERRUPTION
4. HOUSE
(Honorable Mention): HELL'S KITCHEN
Four places I've been on vacation:
1. The Gateway Arch in St. Louis
2. Times Square/Broadway
3. Washington D.C.
4. The WIZARD OF OZ museum in Kansas (no joke)
Four of my favorite dishes:
1. Lasagna
2. Carne Asada
3. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
4. Double Double at IN-N-OUT
Four websites I visit daily:
1. www.comingsoon.net
2. www.espn.com
3. http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/simmons/index
4. www.ebay.com
Four places I would rather be right now:
1. Next to Heather
2. Next to Heather
3. Basketball court
4. Movie theatre
Four CD’s that will never get old:
1. Weezer - The Blue Album
2. Jimmy Eat World - Clarity
3. Garden State Soundtrack
4. Snow Patrol - Eyes Open
Four famous people you have met: (I'm changing it to "seen")
1. Paul Haggis (writer/director of CRASH)
2. Bill Cowher (head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers)
3. Jack Nicholson (at a Lakers game - I was about five feet from him!)
4. Kevin Smith (actually, not yet - I will see him on the 21st; more on that at a later date)
Four people actually read this:
1. Dad
2. Mom-mom
3. Heather
4. Cy
There you have it - - more than just a little post! Hope it was enjoyable!
Goodnight all you out there,
Husteen
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
The Fourth of July Weekend Grab-Bag
Hello all - I'm posting now after a busy weekend that saw relatives come and go through our humble abode as well as me staying out til 0400 in the morning not once, but twice, and culminated in a family movie at the local CINEMARK 22. It's been busy. It's been fun. It's been... awhile since Friday, so bear with me as I try to remember it all :D And because I struggle with my weekend memory (when a lot goes on, it happens), it's gonna definitely follow my usual WEEKEND GRAB-BAG policy: Not chronological :D Enjoy. . .
- Happy Fourth of July by the by. So today was the 230th anniversary of this here country. And America, you don't look a day over 178! (Lame attempt at a joke, I know, but cut me a smidgen of slack please - -) Today I actually slept in til 1300. No, that's not a typo. I'll explain why a bit later (but when you're late to bed, you're usually late to rise), but that kinda threw my day for a loop. I ate a tuna sandwich for lunch (it was yummy) and then the family decided that we were gonna go see CARS at 1550. We did and got out around 1800. The movie you ask? It was pretty good - entertaining at times and funny in parts. But with a running time of over two hours, it kinda drags on in a lot of moments. Besides the boring moments and the at-times sophomoric humor (which can be good at times, but not always - it is a kid's movie though), it follows through like all of the other DISNEY/PIXAR films (o, and stick around during the credits - that's some of the more funny humor in the movie). Grade: B- . . . After the movie, we went back home and I went out back and played a little basketball. When I say I played basketball, what I really mean is that I shot one of those mini-sized basketballs into our hoop at a 7' 6''. This is how I "shoot around". Aimee came out and we played a game of "Around the World" until dinner time. We ate a good dinner (hamburgers, hot dogs, mac and cheese, steak fries, cole slaw - - mmmm) and then later we went out front and tried to view some fireworks. Justin gave me some of those Poppers (ya know, little wrapped-up things of gun powder that "pop" and add a little spark when they hit the ground?) the other night so I brought those out and showed Caleb the fun they can be. That was cool. We also frightened the very skiddish sister with a few of them, which was quite the brother thing to do. Now I'm blogging while watching FRIENDS with Aimee. I've got her hooked. What can I say?
- Well that was today. . . and I'm tired of blogging tonight. Sorry. Let's just say that it was a busy weekend and I'll try a recap tomorrow night after work. Thanks for understanding. . .
Until I can post more,
JUSTIN
- Happy Fourth of July by the by. So today was the 230th anniversary of this here country. And America, you don't look a day over 178! (Lame attempt at a joke, I know, but cut me a smidgen of slack please - -) Today I actually slept in til 1300. No, that's not a typo. I'll explain why a bit later (but when you're late to bed, you're usually late to rise), but that kinda threw my day for a loop. I ate a tuna sandwich for lunch (it was yummy) and then the family decided that we were gonna go see CARS at 1550. We did and got out around 1800. The movie you ask? It was pretty good - entertaining at times and funny in parts. But with a running time of over two hours, it kinda drags on in a lot of moments. Besides the boring moments and the at-times sophomoric humor (which can be good at times, but not always - it is a kid's movie though), it follows through like all of the other DISNEY/PIXAR films (o, and stick around during the credits - that's some of the more funny humor in the movie). Grade: B- . . . After the movie, we went back home and I went out back and played a little basketball. When I say I played basketball, what I really mean is that I shot one of those mini-sized basketballs into our hoop at a 7' 6''. This is how I "shoot around". Aimee came out and we played a game of "Around the World" until dinner time. We ate a good dinner (hamburgers, hot dogs, mac and cheese, steak fries, cole slaw - - mmmm) and then later we went out front and tried to view some fireworks. Justin gave me some of those Poppers (ya know, little wrapped-up things of gun powder that "pop" and add a little spark when they hit the ground?) the other night so I brought those out and showed Caleb the fun they can be. That was cool. We also frightened the very skiddish sister with a few of them, which was quite the brother thing to do. Now I'm blogging while watching FRIENDS with Aimee. I've got her hooked. What can I say?
- Well that was today. . . and I'm tired of blogging tonight. Sorry. Let's just say that it was a busy weekend and I'll try a recap tomorrow night after work. Thanks for understanding. . .
Until I can post more,
JUSTIN
Thursday, June 29, 2006
Aimee, Assisting, and Aspirations
Greetings friends and family and acquaintances (I think I butchered that one) to another installment in A RAMBLER'S RAMBLING. This will be the final post for the month of June, bringing the grand total to 151. Can you believe it? I can't. My goal is to have 181 posts by August 15 (the One-Year Anniversary of A.R.R.) which would mean I posted (as an average) every other day. I think that's impressive. Now, of course, I did not keep up that consistency every month. However, a month like last September (2005), I posted more often. So, because I always feel the need to prove things I say, here are the actual rundowns of posts per month:
- August 2005: 16 (in half a month)
- September 2005: 26 (wow!)
- October 2005: 22
- November 2005: 20
- December 2005: 15 (the slippage continues. . .)
- January 2006: 10
- February 2006: 11
- March 2006: 10
- April 2006: 3 (ok, that's bad - I was very busy at school, though)
- May 2006: 11 (a comeback of sorts)
- June 2006: 7 (with this one - remember, I was gone for two weeks. .)
I'm completely content with all of this. I am so happy I started doing this, and I hope to continue for awhile. As long as I want to do it, I will. My writing has improved (in my opinion) since the beginning, so I think thegoal in even taking a stab at this has been achieved (at least partially). Well I have about 47 days (that's a coincidence friends - and an inside joke) to do those 30 posts remaining. I can do it. And I will. . .
Anywho, since we last talked (or rather, I typed) we've experienced Tuesday, Wednesday, and today. Tuesday was a really long day, but a really cool one. I had to wake up at 0800 to prepare myself for my first day of assisting my old high school basketball coach. Allow me to explain: "T" (Mr. Thomas) was my basketball coach during my junior and senior years. He was also my Bible teacher in 10th grade and I've known him since 5th. Needless to say, we have a good relationship, and I really respect the man (both as a coach and a friend). As you know (if you've read my ramblings with any consistency), I tried to help him out last year at practices as much as my busy schedule would allow. I failed a majority of the time (in appearing, not in the actual assisting). But now, as it's the Summer, and I have no life, I am going to be able to appear at the Summer Open Gym opportunity. The only catch: T is coaching Girls Varsity this year! So, instead of helping out guys, I'm helping girls. One of these girls is my sister, Aimee, who is going to be a Freshman at DCHS this year (don't get me started on that one!).
Too late, you already got me going. So my sister is 14 and going into HS. I am so proud of all she is doing (dance, school, sports) and excelling at. She works pretty dang hard at school and she is very successful in what she is doing (just like her big bro ha ha). Aimee and I haven't been able to spend as much time together as is desired because of our equally busy schedules. However, since she is doing this basketball thing, that's an easy two-three hours a day that we're hanging out - this is cool. You see, Aimee's a really cool girl. Honestly, I think it has to do with being around my friends and I when they're around. She already "experienced" HS when I went through it and has a bountiful source for HS advice in me. All that to be said, she's gonna do just fine at the HS thing, and I'm still in denial about the whole thing.
Ok, so the basketball thing. Well it's cool. We're teaching them basics (gotta P.B. and J it to start) and they're slowly picking it up. I'm actually hoping that I can work my work/school/life schedule around working with them during their actual season. That would be a cool experience. So, yeah, we did that on all three mornings this week (Aimee didn't go today, though, cuz she had a previously scheduled engagement).
Tuesday, after the practice was over, was Sibling Day. Well, just Two Sibling Day. Aimee and I essentially hung out all day. After the practice, we went home and got ourselves cleaned up and then headed out on errands aplenty. I dropped off my check at our Credit Union (it was the one from training - good, but not the "big bucks" I had hoped for) and then we headed to the Mall for lunch and such. We also stopped by BEST BUY (had to pick up the DASHBOARD CD - Pretty good, but not as good as their old stuff) and TARGET (Aimee bought a girls basketball - yeah, they use different sized balls in the girls game. They're lighter and a bit smaller. No jokes please. This is a PG blog... Sometimes). We ate at GREAT STEAK and then went on a hunt for new basketball shoes for her (the only ones she had were from her Middle School days - way too small). During our hunt, we saw that the PRINTS PLUS store (a poster store) was having a "Going Out of Business" Sale. I made a bee-line for the store and began browsing for anything I could find. I found two prints that I got for about 60% off at least (usually $16, I got em for $6). One was the original "Dogs Playing Poker" Artwork and the other was an incredible looking print that I just had to have:
- - - http://www.photographymuseum.com/mutter/escalator.html
Cool, huh? (O and I also bought Aimee an O.C. poster for $3). Next we went to Foot Locker, Finish Line, and even Lady Foot Locker and had absolutely no luck finding shoes for her. So we left the Mall and went to Sport Chalet and were outta there in 10 minutes with a new pair of basketball shoes for her. I took her home to change and then I took her to her Dance practice (she has a ginormous recital on Saturday). I headed home and puttered around til later that night when Aimee and I went to CINEMARK 22 for the 2200 showing of SUPERMAN RETURNS. I love these "Midnight Showings" (yeah, this one was a bit earlier). The experiences are great and it's fun to see a movie before it's "Release Date". O yeah, the movie. SUPERMAN was good, but not great. It wasn't bad, but it certainly wasn't super. Nyuk, nyuk, nyuk. Brandon Routh was fine as Clark/Superman (I don't know what critics were expecting - it's Superman!) and I loved Kevin Spacey as Lex Luthor (I knew he would be the best part of the movie). Overall, it was a fun film with good effects and a solid enough story that it keeps your attention for the tad-long 150-some minutes. (Grade: B)
We got home around 0045 and I was asleep by 0115. We went to basketball in the morning and then. . . I can't remember. I worked Wednesday night at 1800 and it was pretty slow. July is the worst month for restaurants apparently. Bummer.
Today, I got a call this morning from my GM saying I didn't need to come in tonight because he is trying to cut back on labor and only wants one TT during the week. It's a bummer because I only will get 10 hours this week (weak sauce) and minimal total tips, but you know what, I gotta enjoy this downtime. That's the only way I can stay sane later when I'm too busy to stop and smell any flower. So I watched DONNIE BRASCO, a good gangster film starring Al Pacino, Johnny Depp, and Michael Madsen this afternoon. Good film. Johnny Depp is awesome in anything pretty much. (Grade: B+)
I am now tired of blogging for the night. I'm gonna go to bed here in a bit. I gotta get up early to do a work thing at 0900 tomorrow. It's not work, but something else. I'll tell you about the stupidity in a couple days. Busy weekend ahead. Heather comes home tomorrow night for Aimee's Saturday recital. Basically, I'm stoked. Heather just makes me happy. Period. End of Post.
- - - "I'm a pilgrim on the edge,
on the edge of my perception
We are travelers at the edge,
we are always at the edge of our perceptions."
- - - Scott Mutter (Photographer of above linked art - this poem of his is on the art; not sure what it means, but I think it's weak poetry cuz the rhyme scheme sucks. That's my crappy opinion. I like the picture, not the poetry ha ha)
Laters,
JUSTIN
- August 2005: 16 (in half a month)
- September 2005: 26 (wow!)
- October 2005: 22
- November 2005: 20
- December 2005: 15 (the slippage continues. . .)
- January 2006: 10
- February 2006: 11
- March 2006: 10
- April 2006: 3 (ok, that's bad - I was very busy at school, though)
- May 2006: 11 (a comeback of sorts)
- June 2006: 7 (with this one - remember, I was gone for two weeks. .)
I'm completely content with all of this. I am so happy I started doing this, and I hope to continue for awhile. As long as I want to do it, I will. My writing has improved (in my opinion) since the beginning, so I think thegoal in even taking a stab at this has been achieved (at least partially). Well I have about 47 days (that's a coincidence friends - and an inside joke) to do those 30 posts remaining. I can do it. And I will. . .
Anywho, since we last talked (or rather, I typed) we've experienced Tuesday, Wednesday, and today. Tuesday was a really long day, but a really cool one. I had to wake up at 0800 to prepare myself for my first day of assisting my old high school basketball coach. Allow me to explain: "T" (Mr. Thomas) was my basketball coach during my junior and senior years. He was also my Bible teacher in 10th grade and I've known him since 5th. Needless to say, we have a good relationship, and I really respect the man (both as a coach and a friend). As you know (if you've read my ramblings with any consistency), I tried to help him out last year at practices as much as my busy schedule would allow. I failed a majority of the time (in appearing, not in the actual assisting). But now, as it's the Summer, and I have no life, I am going to be able to appear at the Summer Open Gym opportunity. The only catch: T is coaching Girls Varsity this year! So, instead of helping out guys, I'm helping girls. One of these girls is my sister, Aimee, who is going to be a Freshman at DCHS this year (don't get me started on that one!).
Too late, you already got me going. So my sister is 14 and going into HS. I am so proud of all she is doing (dance, school, sports) and excelling at. She works pretty dang hard at school and she is very successful in what she is doing (just like her big bro ha ha). Aimee and I haven't been able to spend as much time together as is desired because of our equally busy schedules. However, since she is doing this basketball thing, that's an easy two-three hours a day that we're hanging out - this is cool. You see, Aimee's a really cool girl. Honestly, I think it has to do with being around my friends and I when they're around. She already "experienced" HS when I went through it and has a bountiful source for HS advice in me. All that to be said, she's gonna do just fine at the HS thing, and I'm still in denial about the whole thing.
Ok, so the basketball thing. Well it's cool. We're teaching them basics (gotta P.B. and J it to start) and they're slowly picking it up. I'm actually hoping that I can work my work/school/life schedule around working with them during their actual season. That would be a cool experience. So, yeah, we did that on all three mornings this week (Aimee didn't go today, though, cuz she had a previously scheduled engagement).
Tuesday, after the practice was over, was Sibling Day. Well, just Two Sibling Day. Aimee and I essentially hung out all day. After the practice, we went home and got ourselves cleaned up and then headed out on errands aplenty. I dropped off my check at our Credit Union (it was the one from training - good, but not the "big bucks" I had hoped for) and then we headed to the Mall for lunch and such. We also stopped by BEST BUY (had to pick up the DASHBOARD CD - Pretty good, but not as good as their old stuff) and TARGET (Aimee bought a girls basketball - yeah, they use different sized balls in the girls game. They're lighter and a bit smaller. No jokes please. This is a PG blog... Sometimes). We ate at GREAT STEAK and then went on a hunt for new basketball shoes for her (the only ones she had were from her Middle School days - way too small). During our hunt, we saw that the PRINTS PLUS store (a poster store) was having a "Going Out of Business" Sale. I made a bee-line for the store and began browsing for anything I could find. I found two prints that I got for about 60% off at least (usually $16, I got em for $6). One was the original "Dogs Playing Poker" Artwork and the other was an incredible looking print that I just had to have:
- - - http://www.photographymuseum.com/mutter/escalator.html
Cool, huh? (O and I also bought Aimee an O.C. poster for $3). Next we went to Foot Locker, Finish Line, and even Lady Foot Locker and had absolutely no luck finding shoes for her. So we left the Mall and went to Sport Chalet and were outta there in 10 minutes with a new pair of basketball shoes for her. I took her home to change and then I took her to her Dance practice (she has a ginormous recital on Saturday). I headed home and puttered around til later that night when Aimee and I went to CINEMARK 22 for the 2200 showing of SUPERMAN RETURNS. I love these "Midnight Showings" (yeah, this one was a bit earlier). The experiences are great and it's fun to see a movie before it's "Release Date". O yeah, the movie. SUPERMAN was good, but not great. It wasn't bad, but it certainly wasn't super. Nyuk, nyuk, nyuk. Brandon Routh was fine as Clark/Superman (I don't know what critics were expecting - it's Superman!) and I loved Kevin Spacey as Lex Luthor (I knew he would be the best part of the movie). Overall, it was a fun film with good effects and a solid enough story that it keeps your attention for the tad-long 150-some minutes. (Grade: B)
We got home around 0045 and I was asleep by 0115. We went to basketball in the morning and then. . . I can't remember. I worked Wednesday night at 1800 and it was pretty slow. July is the worst month for restaurants apparently. Bummer.
Today, I got a call this morning from my GM saying I didn't need to come in tonight because he is trying to cut back on labor and only wants one TT during the week. It's a bummer because I only will get 10 hours this week (weak sauce) and minimal total tips, but you know what, I gotta enjoy this downtime. That's the only way I can stay sane later when I'm too busy to stop and smell any flower. So I watched DONNIE BRASCO, a good gangster film starring Al Pacino, Johnny Depp, and Michael Madsen this afternoon. Good film. Johnny Depp is awesome in anything pretty much. (Grade: B+)
I am now tired of blogging for the night. I'm gonna go to bed here in a bit. I gotta get up early to do a work thing at 0900 tomorrow. It's not work, but something else. I'll tell you about the stupidity in a couple days. Busy weekend ahead. Heather comes home tomorrow night for Aimee's Saturday recital. Basically, I'm stoked. Heather just makes me happy. Period. End of Post.
- - - "I'm a pilgrim on the edge,
on the edge of my perception
We are travelers at the edge,
we are always at the edge of our perceptions."
- - - Scott Mutter (Photographer of above linked art - this poem of his is on the art; not sure what it means, but I think it's weak poetry cuz the rhyme scheme sucks. That's my crappy opinion. I like the picture, not the poetry ha ha)
Laters,
JUSTIN
Monday, June 26, 2006
The Weekend Grab-Bag: The All-About Timing Version
Happy Monday to you all!
This here Grab-Bag will feature events pertaining to the days of Thursday June 22 to Sunday June 25. Just so you know. And remember, as in most Grab-Bags, the following is in no way chronological. . .
- I viewed three movies in the theatre realm this past weekend. In a nice touch, all of them are featured in my SUMMER MOVIE PREVIEW. Now, of the original 26 films featured on that list, I have seen six. Only six. I'm working on it, give me a break! I actually would like to switch my wild-card pick (MY SUPER EX-GIRLFRIEND) with a movie that has just dropped like a fifty-pound weight in a pool (LITTLE MAN - the absolute retardation featured in this film's longer trailer completely turned me off). So now that I have that off my chest, allow me to recommend only one of the last three movies I've seen - - OVER THE HEDGE, an absolutely fun experience in a childish sort of way. My man-crush (thanks for the title, Emily) on Steve Carell certainly aided in my appreciation of the film (and his character, Hammy), but either way, I really enjoyed it. Go see it as a family - this is one of the few "fun for everyone" films. (Grade: B). I also saw CLICK (Grade: C) and THE OMEN (Grade: C-) this past weekend, but neither did enough to make them recommendable. THE OMEN entertained me (and also creeped me out a bit) but wasn't that good of a film, per se. Let's just say I laughed more than I was scared. CLICK was actually a drama with several immature moments. I would actually like to see this movie redone but as a serious dramatic piece... O wait! It's already been done! I consider this film a lot like THE CHRISTMAS CAROL, you know, the story about Ebenezer Scrooge??? Yeah, quite similar. If Adam Sandler hadn't had his few funny scenes, this would have been a different type of film for him. However, he always has to have that scene where he farts in someone's face. Serious Sandler? Almost, but not quite. . .
- I've been watching a lot of the WORLD CUP. Well, not a lot, but a whole heck of a lot more than I usually watch. I'm really amazed by the athleticism of the players out there. The way they time their actions (sense a word usage here. . . think "the title") out on the field and all - let's just say that it impresses me. I'm rooting for England (not sure why) and Ghana (cuz no one expects them to win). We'll see. It's fun to have a sport ongoing that's not as boring as watching grass grow (that would be regular season baseball).
- I worked Thursday night, Saturday night, and Sunday morning. I worked about 18 hours over those three days, which is funny, because at the opening I would do that in a day and a half. Work is work. My GM frustrates me, one of my fellow TTs frustrates me, and stupid servers frustrate me (but there are only a few of those). I know, I know, that's the way work is. But honestly, I am looking forward to trying to get into an occupation that I, o I don't know, enjoy! If my dream came true, and I was an NBA announcer for ESPN, ABC, or some other sort of deal, I can't imagine having gripes and complaints. It's what I want to do. How can what you want be frustrating???? (That's tongue-in-cheek, by the by - I know that everything in this world is frustrating. That's the cynic in me)
- Friday was HEATHERday. I went and saw her and we got to hang out all day! It was such a great day, and can only be explained by the smile that never left my face (except when we were watching CLICK ha ha!). We went to JOHNNY ROCKET'S for lunch (yummy in my belly), did the double feature (CLICK and OVER THE HEDGE back to back - that was fun. It was almost more fun planning it out and figuring out the timing of the whole situation. CLICK ended and OTH began ten minutes later. Great stuff), had some Dippin' Dots (they had an actual store by the theatre we were at - like a Coldstone - and this is something I've been trying to find since I first discovered the wonderful ice cream treat at SIX FLAGS), went to CLAIM JUMPERS (can't go wrong there) and had some us time that only we can appreciate. You see, we always say that others would be honestly sickened by listening to us together. I can't explain it in real words, because the English language has no words that describe how I feel about my FF (future fiance' :D ). Time spent with her is good time. Great time. Absolutely enthralling and exhilirating time (you see, I can't even start to describe it with these futile words!).
- Today is PayDay (no not the candy bar). I get my first taste of my OPENING money. Hopefully that's a good thing. . .
- One of my favorite bands (definitely top 5), DASHBOARD CONFESSIONAL, has a new CD coming out on Tuesday. I will definitely be buying that on Tuesday. Yes indeed.
I think that's good enough for now. I don't really have much more to say, actually. O well... Enjoy your week everyone (and go see SUPERMAN RETURNS this week - I might be going to a 2200 Tuesday night show the night before it's release, this is still TBA - cuz it looks awesome!).
- - -
Until later,
JUSTIN
This here Grab-Bag will feature events pertaining to the days of Thursday June 22 to Sunday June 25. Just so you know. And remember, as in most Grab-Bags, the following is in no way chronological. . .
- I viewed three movies in the theatre realm this past weekend. In a nice touch, all of them are featured in my SUMMER MOVIE PREVIEW. Now, of the original 26 films featured on that list, I have seen six. Only six. I'm working on it, give me a break! I actually would like to switch my wild-card pick (MY SUPER EX-GIRLFRIEND) with a movie that has just dropped like a fifty-pound weight in a pool (LITTLE MAN - the absolute retardation featured in this film's longer trailer completely turned me off). So now that I have that off my chest, allow me to recommend only one of the last three movies I've seen - - OVER THE HEDGE, an absolutely fun experience in a childish sort of way. My man-crush (thanks for the title, Emily) on Steve Carell certainly aided in my appreciation of the film (and his character, Hammy), but either way, I really enjoyed it. Go see it as a family - this is one of the few "fun for everyone" films. (Grade: B). I also saw CLICK (Grade: C) and THE OMEN (Grade: C-) this past weekend, but neither did enough to make them recommendable. THE OMEN entertained me (and also creeped me out a bit) but wasn't that good of a film, per se. Let's just say I laughed more than I was scared. CLICK was actually a drama with several immature moments. I would actually like to see this movie redone but as a serious dramatic piece... O wait! It's already been done! I consider this film a lot like THE CHRISTMAS CAROL, you know, the story about Ebenezer Scrooge??? Yeah, quite similar. If Adam Sandler hadn't had his few funny scenes, this would have been a different type of film for him. However, he always has to have that scene where he farts in someone's face. Serious Sandler? Almost, but not quite. . .
- I've been watching a lot of the WORLD CUP. Well, not a lot, but a whole heck of a lot more than I usually watch. I'm really amazed by the athleticism of the players out there. The way they time their actions (sense a word usage here. . . think "the title") out on the field and all - let's just say that it impresses me. I'm rooting for England (not sure why) and Ghana (cuz no one expects them to win). We'll see. It's fun to have a sport ongoing that's not as boring as watching grass grow (that would be regular season baseball).
- I worked Thursday night, Saturday night, and Sunday morning. I worked about 18 hours over those three days, which is funny, because at the opening I would do that in a day and a half. Work is work. My GM frustrates me, one of my fellow TTs frustrates me, and stupid servers frustrate me (but there are only a few of those). I know, I know, that's the way work is. But honestly, I am looking forward to trying to get into an occupation that I, o I don't know, enjoy! If my dream came true, and I was an NBA announcer for ESPN, ABC, or some other sort of deal, I can't imagine having gripes and complaints. It's what I want to do. How can what you want be frustrating???? (That's tongue-in-cheek, by the by - I know that everything in this world is frustrating. That's the cynic in me)
- Friday was HEATHERday. I went and saw her and we got to hang out all day! It was such a great day, and can only be explained by the smile that never left my face (except when we were watching CLICK ha ha!). We went to JOHNNY ROCKET'S for lunch (yummy in my belly), did the double feature (CLICK and OVER THE HEDGE back to back - that was fun. It was almost more fun planning it out and figuring out the timing of the whole situation. CLICK ended and OTH began ten minutes later. Great stuff), had some Dippin' Dots (they had an actual store by the theatre we were at - like a Coldstone - and this is something I've been trying to find since I first discovered the wonderful ice cream treat at SIX FLAGS), went to CLAIM JUMPERS (can't go wrong there) and had some us time that only we can appreciate. You see, we always say that others would be honestly sickened by listening to us together. I can't explain it in real words, because the English language has no words that describe how I feel about my FF (future fiance' :D ). Time spent with her is good time. Great time. Absolutely enthralling and exhilirating time (you see, I can't even start to describe it with these futile words!).
- Today is PayDay (no not the candy bar). I get my first taste of my OPENING money. Hopefully that's a good thing. . .
- One of my favorite bands (definitely top 5), DASHBOARD CONFESSIONAL, has a new CD coming out on Tuesday. I will definitely be buying that on Tuesday. Yes indeed.
I think that's good enough for now. I don't really have much more to say, actually. O well... Enjoy your week everyone (and go see SUPERMAN RETURNS this week - I might be going to a 2200 Tuesday night show the night before it's release, this is still TBA - cuz it looks awesome!).
- - -
Until later,
JUSTIN
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Enter Witty Title Here
You know, after two weeks of not blogging (or not blogging consistently), it's very hard to get back into the swing of things. Work tonight caused me to be home at 2330 as well, so that also makes blogging difficult. I'll do my best to get a little out for you. I know you need me. . .
(O, and blog titles are really hard to come up with. I have tried throughout the time that it's taken me to write all of the rest of this - I'm writing this little bit after all that's after it; isn't that trippy? - and I can't come up with anything good. Natalia, a fellow trainer of mine who remains in Downey for a third week, mentioned that I could just do what I ended up titling this one. I like it. You come up with a title for once! Ha...)
Random movie recommendations:
- KISS KISS, BANG BANG (Grade: A+): Wow. This movie is so smartly written (Shane Black - also the director - is a freakin' genius) and I was drawn into the film in the first thirty seconds. Loved it. However. It's not for everyone. But it was for me (I'm a gigantic Robert Downey Jr. fan) and I completely recommend it. One of the best films of last year (probably second, only behind CRASH) and I'm moving it into my TOP 30, maybe even TOP 10. Yes, I liked it that much!
- DAVE CHAPELLE'S BLOCK PARTY (Grade: B+): Very funny (anything with Dave is) and very cool music. Also not for everyone. If you don't like rap, R&B, or Chapelle's comedy (including mucho profanity) then this film is not for you. If you are a fan of any or all of the above mentioned characteristics, then you should go rent this movie tomorrow. Do it, before someone else who read this beats you to Blockbuster!
So at work tonight, I was kinda wigging out. You see, the Downey restaurant we just opened up looks exactly the same as my home restaurant in Palmdale. There are just a couple miniscule differentiations. 1) It's backwards. Or inside out. I don't know how'd you put it, but either way, the two restaurants are exact mirror images of each other. And when I say mirror, I mean like when you read your shirt in the mirror and have no idea what it says. Get it? So, Table 50 is where Table 20 should be, and all that jazz. It's weird. 2) The floor is a different color! At Downey, it was an orangish, woodish color. Palmdale has black floor. What a difference! Our restaurant is dark, kinda dreary. The other one was bright, inviting, and nicer looking. Ours is busier. We win. 3) Palmdale people rock! I missed my managers (some of them - Jennifer and Tim fo sho.... wait that's all but one...) and I missed the servers that like me back home. Tonight was fun because I got to work with Chris, a TT that I really like working with. We make a good team. I'm happy I'm home. That's pure and simple.
Well I'm going to retire for the evening because I wanna wake up and watch the U.S.A. - GHANA game in the morning. Wait! You haven't been watching the WORLD CUP??!!?? Let me tell you what's goin down: I never watch soccer. I never play soccer. But every four years (kinda like the Olympics and elections) I get caught up in the excitement of the WORLD CUP. So here's the dealio with the game in the morning. Both teams need a win to advance (and a win by Italy over the Czech Republic - - not sure about that either) and it's the last chance for both. So because of the time difference (this WORLD CUP is in Germany), the game starts at 0630 or some ungodly hour like that. I'm aiming for an 0800 eye-opening time so I can catch the waning seconds. Minutes. Stoppage time. Whatever.
And I just bought the new RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS cd (entitled Stadium Arcadium). Excellent shtuff! I like it more than By The Way. It's a great buy.
- - For those of you who are sports fans (particularly the greatest sport ever - basketball), my favorite columnist (and fellow blogger) Bill Simmons wrote an outstanding article about the potential fate of the NBA following a Miami Heat championship. Well it happened. Let's hope what he predicts doesn't happen. And until November, when the 06-07 takes off, get better Amare! Here's the link: http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmons/060620
Later. By the by, all of you who read this - - you are my inspiration. Goodnight.
The Rambler
(O, and blog titles are really hard to come up with. I have tried throughout the time that it's taken me to write all of the rest of this - I'm writing this little bit after all that's after it; isn't that trippy? - and I can't come up with anything good. Natalia, a fellow trainer of mine who remains in Downey for a third week, mentioned that I could just do what I ended up titling this one. I like it. You come up with a title for once! Ha...)
Random movie recommendations:
- KISS KISS, BANG BANG (Grade: A+): Wow. This movie is so smartly written (Shane Black - also the director - is a freakin' genius) and I was drawn into the film in the first thirty seconds. Loved it. However. It's not for everyone. But it was for me (I'm a gigantic Robert Downey Jr. fan) and I completely recommend it. One of the best films of last year (probably second, only behind CRASH) and I'm moving it into my TOP 30, maybe even TOP 10. Yes, I liked it that much!
- DAVE CHAPELLE'S BLOCK PARTY (Grade: B+): Very funny (anything with Dave is) and very cool music. Also not for everyone. If you don't like rap, R&B, or Chapelle's comedy (including mucho profanity) then this film is not for you. If you are a fan of any or all of the above mentioned characteristics, then you should go rent this movie tomorrow. Do it, before someone else who read this beats you to Blockbuster!
So at work tonight, I was kinda wigging out. You see, the Downey restaurant we just opened up looks exactly the same as my home restaurant in Palmdale. There are just a couple miniscule differentiations. 1) It's backwards. Or inside out. I don't know how'd you put it, but either way, the two restaurants are exact mirror images of each other. And when I say mirror, I mean like when you read your shirt in the mirror and have no idea what it says. Get it? So, Table 50 is where Table 20 should be, and all that jazz. It's weird. 2) The floor is a different color! At Downey, it was an orangish, woodish color. Palmdale has black floor. What a difference! Our restaurant is dark, kinda dreary. The other one was bright, inviting, and nicer looking. Ours is busier. We win. 3) Palmdale people rock! I missed my managers (some of them - Jennifer and Tim fo sho.... wait that's all but one...) and I missed the servers that like me back home. Tonight was fun because I got to work with Chris, a TT that I really like working with. We make a good team. I'm happy I'm home. That's pure and simple.
Well I'm going to retire for the evening because I wanna wake up and watch the U.S.A. - GHANA game in the morning. Wait! You haven't been watching the WORLD CUP??!!?? Let me tell you what's goin down: I never watch soccer. I never play soccer. But every four years (kinda like the Olympics and elections) I get caught up in the excitement of the WORLD CUP. So here's the dealio with the game in the morning. Both teams need a win to advance (and a win by Italy over the Czech Republic - - not sure about that either) and it's the last chance for both. So because of the time difference (this WORLD CUP is in Germany), the game starts at 0630 or some ungodly hour like that. I'm aiming for an 0800 eye-opening time so I can catch the waning seconds. Minutes. Stoppage time. Whatever.
And I just bought the new RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS cd (entitled Stadium Arcadium). Excellent shtuff! I like it more than By The Way. It's a great buy.
- - For those of you who are sports fans (particularly the greatest sport ever - basketball), my favorite columnist (and fellow blogger) Bill Simmons wrote an outstanding article about the potential fate of the NBA following a Miami Heat championship. Well it happened. Let's hope what he predicts doesn't happen. And until November, when the 06-07 takes off, get better Amare! Here's the link: http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmons/060620
Later. By the by, all of you who read this - - you are my inspiration. Goodnight.
The Rambler
Monday, June 19, 2006
The Week Grab-Bag: The Home Again, Home Again (Jiggity Jig) Version
I'm baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaack!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I love home. It's approximately (if I had to guesstimate - - ) eighty-six times better than living out of a hotel in La Palma.
I'd like to begin by welcoming all of the in JOHNNY CARINO'S in Downey staff members who found my note on the Host Stand. Enjoy. And to my fellow trainers who decided to make their way here too (hi Na-ta-ta-talia! - there's your hello!): Welcome. Make yourselves at home. Mi casa es su casa. Yo hablo poquito espanol. Taco. Burrito. Quesadilla.....
So I am now back home in wonderful Lancaster. My week was uber-long (did I use "uber" correctly there?) and I'm really glad it's over. I managed a measly 58 hours this week (nothing in comparison to the 61 of the previous week...) and that gives me a total of 119 hours over two weeks time. I don't work that much in a month at my store (restaurant, not store)! Either way, my week flew by at times, and lagged at times. But no matter what happened (and what didn't), it's all over, and I've now reclaimed my throne in my manor. The Rambler has returned.
I'm planning a second week recap for tomorrow, as tonight I am kinda sleepy (four hours of sleep will do that to you - hey, it was our last night together as trainers!). I'm waffling between watching KISS KISS, BANG BANG or DAVE CHAPELLE'S BLOCK PARTY (both arrived from Netflix while I was gone). I'm leaning towards KISS. Yes. That is what I'm going to do.
Goodnight for now - - and stay safe Downey, CA. Watch out for crazy serial killers holed up in apartments across from a shopping mall. . .
- - - "You know how you laugh? You smile and then let go!"
- - - The brother (almost 5 now) at dinner tonight. Priceless
Later Later,
Baby J
I love home. It's approximately (if I had to guesstimate - - ) eighty-six times better than living out of a hotel in La Palma.
I'd like to begin by welcoming all of the in JOHNNY CARINO'S in Downey staff members who found my note on the Host Stand. Enjoy. And to my fellow trainers who decided to make their way here too (hi Na-ta-ta-talia! - there's your hello!): Welcome. Make yourselves at home. Mi casa es su casa. Yo hablo poquito espanol. Taco. Burrito. Quesadilla.....
So I am now back home in wonderful Lancaster. My week was uber-long (did I use "uber" correctly there?) and I'm really glad it's over. I managed a measly 58 hours this week (nothing in comparison to the 61 of the previous week...) and that gives me a total of 119 hours over two weeks time. I don't work that much in a month at my store (restaurant, not store)! Either way, my week flew by at times, and lagged at times. But no matter what happened (and what didn't), it's all over, and I've now reclaimed my throne in my manor. The Rambler has returned.
I'm planning a second week recap for tomorrow, as tonight I am kinda sleepy (four hours of sleep will do that to you - hey, it was our last night together as trainers!). I'm waffling between watching KISS KISS, BANG BANG or DAVE CHAPELLE'S BLOCK PARTY (both arrived from Netflix while I was gone). I'm leaning towards KISS. Yes. That is what I'm going to do.
Goodnight for now - - and stay safe Downey, CA. Watch out for crazy serial killers holed up in apartments across from a shopping mall. . .
- - - "You know how you laugh? You smile and then let go!"
- - - The brother (almost 5 now) at dinner tonight. Priceless
Later Later,
Baby J
Sunday, June 11, 2006
The Week Grab: The All-Things New Version
Well hello there!!!
Could you imagine a new post from the traveling, ever-working, JOHNNY CARINO'S trainer. Well imagine no more - cuz here is a new post!
It's Sunday and it's my day off. I'm at Heather's apartment, but she's at work right now. So I figured since I can't watch TV (no cable here) I would give you some sort of an update on my busy busy busy (did I mention busy?) week.
I arrived in Downey on Monday around noon time. I checked into the hotel that I would be ultimately living out of for two weeks and then called Christi, the Team Leader at the Downey Opening. For those of you who don't know (or didn't read my previous posts) I'm in Downey serving as the (and that means only) Table Tender trainer for the brand new JC that has been put up here. As a trainer, I have to teach classrooms, demonstrate, critique, and ultimately rule over 10 Table Tenders. This has been a completely new and exciting time for me. Not only am I banking (trainer-pay baby!), but I'm actually producing the TTs that will be representing that restaurant. However, all of this comes at a price. And for us JC trainers, that price is sleep. Our work week (Monday-Sunday) just completed and my time card says that I worked 60.75 hours this week. No, I did not put the period in the wrong spot. I averaged 10 hours a day for six straight days. Now, I worked about six hours on two of those days, so what does that tell you about the other four? I had upwards of thirteen hours recorded on some days this week. My work to sleep ratio is roughly 2:1 seeing that I averaged around 5 hours of sleep a night.
Back to the actual training process. I have six AM TT and I have four PM TT. Of these ten staff members, two of them are what we call "S.T.'s". They are called this because that means they are "s-t-ruggling" and we don't want to embarass them. I figure that's a pretty good ratio, considering that I have eight TTs that need little to no constructive criticism. But now I'm gonna try to remember my day-to-day routine for you so you get a feel for how the opening has gone thus far:
- MONDAY: I got over to the restaurant around 1230. Like I said earlier (there's been a long tangent since I remarked about it) I had called Christi to see if I could head over to work even though I was not scheduled to start work til Tuesday. She said that she could probably find something for me to do, so I got my butt over there to start getting hours. I ended up putting in 7.5 hours of work and teaching my PM TTs their class a day early. They day was a completely odd-feeling one for me, as I have never taught a TT class before (hell, I haven't even been taught the TT class!). My biggest fear going into this opening was that of teaching the sidework that is required for all TTs at my JC to do before they go home. I may or may not have given out all of that before (I can't remember if I've told you all) but it's a lot of work. Our sidework includes breaking down both beverage stations (about 15-20 min. each), cleaning out all of the parmesan cheese bowls throughout the restaurant (my least favorite - this one can take forever!), and about five or six other chores that take a total of an hour and a half when done alone (give or take). Well I was going to have to "P.B. and J" all of these jobs for my staff members, and that worried me, because there was a possibility that I could teach it the wrong way, and that would be absolutely horrible. BUT, (and that's a big "but") I found out... O wait, that's all coming on
- TUESDAY: On my second day of training, I was told that the servers would be doing all of the sidework (the way it should be - - fifteen people can do it so much faster than two and way faster than one!) and the TTs would only be required to check the bathrooms, take out some trash, sweep a little, and roll all the clean silverware (a job, at my JC, that is divied up between the servers). This was such a relief to me! So, on this day (06/06/06 - weird, huh?) I taught my AM TTs all that I had taught my PMs (not to be confused with PMS - although there has been a little of that amongst the trainers!) the night before and then furthered the training of my PMs that night. Tuesday ended up being an 11.5 hour day when all was said and done. Tuesday night I went to see Heather for a brief two hours (we watched FERRIS BUELLER'S DAY OFF - again) and that made my night wonderful in itself! My hotel (a La Quinta Inn for those wanting to know) is in La Palma, a city about 13 miles from the JC and about 14 miles from Heather (different directions though - the JC is 11 miles from Heather). Unfortunately, I had to head back to get some sleep for
- WEDNESDAY: I had to be there early on this day because I had to go through Trainer Orientation with another guy who was also a late arrival (everyone else had gotten there Sunday and gone thru said orientation on Monday morning) so we were at the restaurant at 0825. The orientation didn't last as long as they had thought and we had about an hour to kill. Or so we thought. We were instead asked to go on a wild goose chase in search of nametags and a McDonald's. We got back just in time with the requested materials (the former, a necessary material for our staff members and the latter, a breakfast treat for our Team Leaders) and readied for another busy day. Wednesday ended up being my longest day in terms of hours (12.75) and had the shortest break (less than a half hour - sounds illegal no? - yeah, I'm not sure either). I actually forget what it all entailed, but I know I was really tired when all was said and done. Which leads me to
- THURSDAY: This, another 11.5 hour day, was our first day of live role play. We had an invitation-only lunch and dinner that provided our staff members with a chance to learn on real guests. The food was free for our guests (seriously, JC goes all out on openings - trainer lodging, our salaries, free food for us every meal, airplane tickets for those trainers from NorCal, and of course a completely complimentary two lunches and two dinners for several thousand people) and the experience was very interesting. I can't really remember my opening, but I'm sure I was nervous as hell, so I tried my best to help out my staff members with whatever they needed. I discovered my stars (two of my PMs remind me of cool TTs back home) and also was frustrated with my "S.Ts". I had to do evaluations on all of my staff members and that was also a gut-wrenching experience. It's hard to tell someone that they need to do better when they look back in disbelief. Not my favorite part of the job. Now, because Thursday was such a long day, a bunch of the trainers wanted to go out and party a little. I had yet to hang out with them at night (something I wanted to try a little) and I took advantage of this opportunity and did just that. (Note to Mom: Stop Reading :D ) A group of 16 of us went to T.G.I.FRIDAY'S for some hang out time (for all of the others, it was for drinking time). Yeah, I'm responsible, so don't worry. I was actually a designated driver, which was a hilarious experience. None of them got plastered or anything, but I was happy to drive anyways - - I enjoyed my cherry cokes and fries. You know, (brief tangent) I have never tasted alcohol. The closest thing to it that I've had would probably be Nyquil. Yeah, quite possibly half of the trainers who drank that night aren't actually 21 (I think there were only a few actually), but I just didn't want to. I figure, a law is a law. When I turn 21, I'll probably drink a bit. Cy and I are planning a Vegas trip for my 21st and yeah, we'll probably have something while playing our Texas Hold 'Em, but I'll be the guy sipping down Pina Coladas and stuff like that. That's just me. After FRIDAY'S, we went back to the hotel, where the party moved to a hotel room. I won't divulge what happened here, but I was laughing almost the whole time. Drunk people are funny. That's all I'll say.
- FUN FRIDAY: That's what it's called around JC because it's round 2 of the live role play, and it includes a nighttime cameo by the owners. That's right, John Gantos, the guy who signs my check, was there eating. Friday night might have been one of the craziest nights ever. Doors were supposed to close at 2030 and yet the last party did not get sat until 2130. I only had 3 TTs for this shift, which was not enough seeing that they're still learning (and honestly, the policies at this JC are weird - I appreciate my restaurant a little more now). I was bussing too, even to the extent of sweating like a fool. What a night! This was a 12.25 hour day that didn't end until 2330. We actually stayed at the restaurant until after midnight and I didn't roll into my room until 0037 (I know the exact time because I turned on the TV and Conan was just starting ha ha). I am just laying there enjoying his monologue and I get a call from one of the other trainers who says we have the conference room downstairs for the night if we want it to watch a movie and hang out. I'm exhausted, but I sleepily agree. I ended up hanging out down in the conference room (and this night was all non-alcoholically inspired) until 0330! We chatted whilst FIGHT CLUB played on the TV. We talked about everything under the sun (I'm pretty sure about this fact). It was a lot of fun, but
- SATURDAY: The day that came too fast. I got about 3 hours of sleep Friday night, so I was pretty well useless. It was a short work day though (5.5 hours). Even in my tired state, I managed to create something cool. Saturday was 3 C's day (I forget what that stands for, but it was basically review/safety training day) and I had to entertain my TTs for two hours. This took skill. I set up the so-called "Gauntlet" (yes, I named it) in the one room that I was given to teach or whatever. It consisted of three dirty tables (all clean dishes, but we pretended), a cup quiz (this was 8 different beverage containers and the different racks from the Dish Room that they go in - my TTs had to put them in the correct rack), and roling-silverware practice. They enjoyed it, I think. I promised them that I would go at the end, and that motivated them too. Rigoberto (my only non-English-speaking TT - I use my others to translate) and Angelica (I have two, count them, two female TTs) tied with the time of six minutes. I did it in six point five, but all my tables were perfect - they had flaws :D . . . We had a long lunch break and then I had to do a little improvising, as my room from the morning was being used for something else in the PM. I basically told them some stuff and we helped clean up around the restaurant. I got them out of there fast so I could get out of there too. I had planned a date night with Heather because we were getting out of work early. However, Friday night supplied the information that we had a Mandatory Trainer Outing (a Trainer Appreciation Dinner) on Saturday night at 1900. Talk about disappointing. Anyway, I headed to Heather's around 1630 and hung out til 1830 - actually, I slept. My absolute lethargy was difficult to counter, and I passed out on her bed while she cleaned her apartment. She woke me up at 1800 so we could snuggle (I love snuggling with someone so beautiful) before I left for the Outing. We were supposed to be there at 1900 sharp (in the lobby). I was. The last ones got there at 1920 or so, and we finally left for EL TORITO (across the street from the hotel) at 1930. I had asked the Team Leaders if my wonderful Heather could attend, and that was answered with a resounding "nope". So, I had to sit there whilst my co-trainers bitched about not being able to drink (the management was there). I did eat really well (order the Carne Asada dinner there - wow!) and then we were presented with some gifts (a baseball jersey with DOWNEY 18 on it - this is the 18th JC in California - and a small lunchpail/cooler thing). When my buddies left to go get drunk (they got the green light once the management left), I headed directly to my wonderful Heather for as much time as possible.
- SUNDAY: Today, I got to Heather ASAP. She's working this morning/afternoon, but I'm at her place watching after her new little friend - a kitten. Pete (as he will be named if she keeps him) is a kitten who was brought into PETCO a couple days ago. Some woman brought him in and said she didn't know what to do with him. The poor guy, Pete was flea-infested, malnourished, and living on the streets. All of the employees had a crack at taking him home, but no one was willing or able. Heather, as those of you who know her know, is a sucker for kitties, and took him when no one else would. She spent two sleepless nights getting rid of fleas (flea baths for kitty), syringe-feeding, and just plain loving a cat back to existence. Now, Pete is a flea-free, very cute little kitten. He's still very skinny (you can feel his ribs and spine when you pick him up) but that will go away with time. So, yeah.... Not sure what the rest of the night will entail, but I wanted to take this time to give an update on me. Feel honored (this took me two hours...)
I hope you all have a good week. I'm not sure when my next post will be, but I go home the 19th, so definitely expect one then.
- - - HAPPY BIRTHDAY POP!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY CHELS!!!
Until my next post,
JUSTIN
Could you imagine a new post from the traveling, ever-working, JOHNNY CARINO'S trainer. Well imagine no more - cuz here is a new post!
It's Sunday and it's my day off. I'm at Heather's apartment, but she's at work right now. So I figured since I can't watch TV (no cable here) I would give you some sort of an update on my busy busy busy (did I mention busy?) week.
I arrived in Downey on Monday around noon time. I checked into the hotel that I would be ultimately living out of for two weeks and then called Christi, the Team Leader at the Downey Opening. For those of you who don't know (or didn't read my previous posts) I'm in Downey serving as the (and that means only) Table Tender trainer for the brand new JC that has been put up here. As a trainer, I have to teach classrooms, demonstrate, critique, and ultimately rule over 10 Table Tenders. This has been a completely new and exciting time for me. Not only am I banking (trainer-pay baby!), but I'm actually producing the TTs that will be representing that restaurant. However, all of this comes at a price. And for us JC trainers, that price is sleep. Our work week (Monday-Sunday) just completed and my time card says that I worked 60.75 hours this week. No, I did not put the period in the wrong spot. I averaged 10 hours a day for six straight days. Now, I worked about six hours on two of those days, so what does that tell you about the other four? I had upwards of thirteen hours recorded on some days this week. My work to sleep ratio is roughly 2:1 seeing that I averaged around 5 hours of sleep a night.
Back to the actual training process. I have six AM TT and I have four PM TT. Of these ten staff members, two of them are what we call "S.T.'s". They are called this because that means they are "s-t-ruggling" and we don't want to embarass them. I figure that's a pretty good ratio, considering that I have eight TTs that need little to no constructive criticism. But now I'm gonna try to remember my day-to-day routine for you so you get a feel for how the opening has gone thus far:
- MONDAY: I got over to the restaurant around 1230. Like I said earlier (there's been a long tangent since I remarked about it) I had called Christi to see if I could head over to work even though I was not scheduled to start work til Tuesday. She said that she could probably find something for me to do, so I got my butt over there to start getting hours. I ended up putting in 7.5 hours of work and teaching my PM TTs their class a day early. They day was a completely odd-feeling one for me, as I have never taught a TT class before (hell, I haven't even been taught the TT class!). My biggest fear going into this opening was that of teaching the sidework that is required for all TTs at my JC to do before they go home. I may or may not have given out all of that before (I can't remember if I've told you all) but it's a lot of work. Our sidework includes breaking down both beverage stations (about 15-20 min. each), cleaning out all of the parmesan cheese bowls throughout the restaurant (my least favorite - this one can take forever!), and about five or six other chores that take a total of an hour and a half when done alone (give or take). Well I was going to have to "P.B. and J" all of these jobs for my staff members, and that worried me, because there was a possibility that I could teach it the wrong way, and that would be absolutely horrible. BUT, (and that's a big "but") I found out... O wait, that's all coming on
- TUESDAY: On my second day of training, I was told that the servers would be doing all of the sidework (the way it should be - - fifteen people can do it so much faster than two and way faster than one!) and the TTs would only be required to check the bathrooms, take out some trash, sweep a little, and roll all the clean silverware (a job, at my JC, that is divied up between the servers). This was such a relief to me! So, on this day (06/06/06 - weird, huh?) I taught my AM TTs all that I had taught my PMs (not to be confused with PMS - although there has been a little of that amongst the trainers!) the night before and then furthered the training of my PMs that night. Tuesday ended up being an 11.5 hour day when all was said and done. Tuesday night I went to see Heather for a brief two hours (we watched FERRIS BUELLER'S DAY OFF - again) and that made my night wonderful in itself! My hotel (a La Quinta Inn for those wanting to know) is in La Palma, a city about 13 miles from the JC and about 14 miles from Heather (different directions though - the JC is 11 miles from Heather). Unfortunately, I had to head back to get some sleep for
- WEDNESDAY: I had to be there early on this day because I had to go through Trainer Orientation with another guy who was also a late arrival (everyone else had gotten there Sunday and gone thru said orientation on Monday morning) so we were at the restaurant at 0825. The orientation didn't last as long as they had thought and we had about an hour to kill. Or so we thought. We were instead asked to go on a wild goose chase in search of nametags and a McDonald's. We got back just in time with the requested materials (the former, a necessary material for our staff members and the latter, a breakfast treat for our Team Leaders) and readied for another busy day. Wednesday ended up being my longest day in terms of hours (12.75) and had the shortest break (less than a half hour - sounds illegal no? - yeah, I'm not sure either). I actually forget what it all entailed, but I know I was really tired when all was said and done. Which leads me to
- THURSDAY: This, another 11.5 hour day, was our first day of live role play. We had an invitation-only lunch and dinner that provided our staff members with a chance to learn on real guests. The food was free for our guests (seriously, JC goes all out on openings - trainer lodging, our salaries, free food for us every meal, airplane tickets for those trainers from NorCal, and of course a completely complimentary two lunches and two dinners for several thousand people) and the experience was very interesting. I can't really remember my opening, but I'm sure I was nervous as hell, so I tried my best to help out my staff members with whatever they needed. I discovered my stars (two of my PMs remind me of cool TTs back home) and also was frustrated with my "S.Ts". I had to do evaluations on all of my staff members and that was also a gut-wrenching experience. It's hard to tell someone that they need to do better when they look back in disbelief. Not my favorite part of the job. Now, because Thursday was such a long day, a bunch of the trainers wanted to go out and party a little. I had yet to hang out with them at night (something I wanted to try a little) and I took advantage of this opportunity and did just that. (Note to Mom: Stop Reading :D ) A group of 16 of us went to T.G.I.FRIDAY'S for some hang out time (for all of the others, it was for drinking time). Yeah, I'm responsible, so don't worry. I was actually a designated driver, which was a hilarious experience. None of them got plastered or anything, but I was happy to drive anyways - - I enjoyed my cherry cokes and fries. You know, (brief tangent) I have never tasted alcohol. The closest thing to it that I've had would probably be Nyquil. Yeah, quite possibly half of the trainers who drank that night aren't actually 21 (I think there were only a few actually), but I just didn't want to. I figure, a law is a law. When I turn 21, I'll probably drink a bit. Cy and I are planning a Vegas trip for my 21st and yeah, we'll probably have something while playing our Texas Hold 'Em, but I'll be the guy sipping down Pina Coladas and stuff like that. That's just me. After FRIDAY'S, we went back to the hotel, where the party moved to a hotel room. I won't divulge what happened here, but I was laughing almost the whole time. Drunk people are funny. That's all I'll say.
- FUN FRIDAY: That's what it's called around JC because it's round 2 of the live role play, and it includes a nighttime cameo by the owners. That's right, John Gantos, the guy who signs my check, was there eating. Friday night might have been one of the craziest nights ever. Doors were supposed to close at 2030 and yet the last party did not get sat until 2130. I only had 3 TTs for this shift, which was not enough seeing that they're still learning (and honestly, the policies at this JC are weird - I appreciate my restaurant a little more now). I was bussing too, even to the extent of sweating like a fool. What a night! This was a 12.25 hour day that didn't end until 2330. We actually stayed at the restaurant until after midnight and I didn't roll into my room until 0037 (I know the exact time because I turned on the TV and Conan was just starting ha ha). I am just laying there enjoying his monologue and I get a call from one of the other trainers who says we have the conference room downstairs for the night if we want it to watch a movie and hang out. I'm exhausted, but I sleepily agree. I ended up hanging out down in the conference room (and this night was all non-alcoholically inspired) until 0330! We chatted whilst FIGHT CLUB played on the TV. We talked about everything under the sun (I'm pretty sure about this fact). It was a lot of fun, but
- SATURDAY: The day that came too fast. I got about 3 hours of sleep Friday night, so I was pretty well useless. It was a short work day though (5.5 hours). Even in my tired state, I managed to create something cool. Saturday was 3 C's day (I forget what that stands for, but it was basically review/safety training day) and I had to entertain my TTs for two hours. This took skill. I set up the so-called "Gauntlet" (yes, I named it) in the one room that I was given to teach or whatever. It consisted of three dirty tables (all clean dishes, but we pretended), a cup quiz (this was 8 different beverage containers and the different racks from the Dish Room that they go in - my TTs had to put them in the correct rack), and roling-silverware practice. They enjoyed it, I think. I promised them that I would go at the end, and that motivated them too. Rigoberto (my only non-English-speaking TT - I use my others to translate) and Angelica (I have two, count them, two female TTs) tied with the time of six minutes. I did it in six point five, but all my tables were perfect - they had flaws :D . . . We had a long lunch break and then I had to do a little improvising, as my room from the morning was being used for something else in the PM. I basically told them some stuff and we helped clean up around the restaurant. I got them out of there fast so I could get out of there too. I had planned a date night with Heather because we were getting out of work early. However, Friday night supplied the information that we had a Mandatory Trainer Outing (a Trainer Appreciation Dinner) on Saturday night at 1900. Talk about disappointing. Anyway, I headed to Heather's around 1630 and hung out til 1830 - actually, I slept. My absolute lethargy was difficult to counter, and I passed out on her bed while she cleaned her apartment. She woke me up at 1800 so we could snuggle (I love snuggling with someone so beautiful) before I left for the Outing. We were supposed to be there at 1900 sharp (in the lobby). I was. The last ones got there at 1920 or so, and we finally left for EL TORITO (across the street from the hotel) at 1930. I had asked the Team Leaders if my wonderful Heather could attend, and that was answered with a resounding "nope". So, I had to sit there whilst my co-trainers bitched about not being able to drink (the management was there). I did eat really well (order the Carne Asada dinner there - wow!) and then we were presented with some gifts (a baseball jersey with DOWNEY 18 on it - this is the 18th JC in California - and a small lunchpail/cooler thing). When my buddies left to go get drunk (they got the green light once the management left), I headed directly to my wonderful Heather for as much time as possible.
- SUNDAY: Today, I got to Heather ASAP. She's working this morning/afternoon, but I'm at her place watching after her new little friend - a kitten. Pete (as he will be named if she keeps him) is a kitten who was brought into PETCO a couple days ago. Some woman brought him in and said she didn't know what to do with him. The poor guy, Pete was flea-infested, malnourished, and living on the streets. All of the employees had a crack at taking him home, but no one was willing or able. Heather, as those of you who know her know, is a sucker for kitties, and took him when no one else would. She spent two sleepless nights getting rid of fleas (flea baths for kitty), syringe-feeding, and just plain loving a cat back to existence. Now, Pete is a flea-free, very cute little kitten. He's still very skinny (you can feel his ribs and spine when you pick him up) but that will go away with time. So, yeah.... Not sure what the rest of the night will entail, but I wanted to take this time to give an update on me. Feel honored (this took me two hours...)
I hope you all have a good week. I'm not sure when my next post will be, but I go home the 19th, so definitely expect one then.
- - - HAPPY BIRTHDAY POP!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY CHELS!!!
Until my next post,
JUSTIN
Saturday, June 03, 2006
It's All Over But The Cryin'
Except there was brief almost-crying.
My Phoenix Suns are again the defeated team in the Western Conference Finals. We lost 4 games to 2 to the worthy Dallas Mavericks (we lost 4-1 last year to the eventual champion San Antonio Spurs). It's sad. Heather told me she doesn't know why it's something that changes one's mood when a sports team loses. She told me this while I was sad on the phone with her following the game. I couldn't explain it. . . and I still can't. But I will try: True, the Suns have given me nothing in return for my devotion over the years. It's a completely one-sided relationship. However, I put lots of effort, time, and money into this team. I have spent many an hour watching the Suns this season, including two live games against the Lakers. I root for this team everytime they take the floor. I back the players in their actions (Raja Bell's wrangling of Kobe Bryant is one example) and I celebrate in their accomplishments (Steve Nash's back-to-back MVP's). This is my team. The Phoenix Suns are the only team in any sport that I truly support with all of my rooting energy. And now they are out. Again. We have never won a championship, despite many almosts. Yeah, there's always next year (and for us, the future is bright) but I was really hopeful for this season. O well. Now we're gone fishin'.
Enough of the sadness. . .
I'm heading to Downey tomorrow. I come home on the 19th. That's over two weeks for those of you keeping count at home. I'm not sure how it's going to go, but I'm going with no expectations. That way, my friends, I can't be surprised, let down, or disgruntled.
You know what's exciting, though? Where I'm staying is a mere 13 miles from Heather!!! I am gonna be able to see her almost every day! That is awesome!
I will try to do my best to post updates (via Heather's computer) during the opening, but I'm not promising anything. Wish me luck, and I'll be seeing ya. . .
- - - "Everything ends badly. Otherwise, it wouldn't end."
- - - Bryan Flanagan (Tom Cruise) in COCKTAIL, which I watched again tonight; Love this movie!!!
Goodnight and au revoir,
Sad Sun Fan,
JUSTIN
My Phoenix Suns are again the defeated team in the Western Conference Finals. We lost 4 games to 2 to the worthy Dallas Mavericks (we lost 4-1 last year to the eventual champion San Antonio Spurs). It's sad. Heather told me she doesn't know why it's something that changes one's mood when a sports team loses. She told me this while I was sad on the phone with her following the game. I couldn't explain it. . . and I still can't. But I will try: True, the Suns have given me nothing in return for my devotion over the years. It's a completely one-sided relationship. However, I put lots of effort, time, and money into this team. I have spent many an hour watching the Suns this season, including two live games against the Lakers. I root for this team everytime they take the floor. I back the players in their actions (Raja Bell's wrangling of Kobe Bryant is one example) and I celebrate in their accomplishments (Steve Nash's back-to-back MVP's). This is my team. The Phoenix Suns are the only team in any sport that I truly support with all of my rooting energy. And now they are out. Again. We have never won a championship, despite many almosts. Yeah, there's always next year (and for us, the future is bright) but I was really hopeful for this season. O well. Now we're gone fishin'.
Enough of the sadness. . .
I'm heading to Downey tomorrow. I come home on the 19th. That's over two weeks for those of you keeping count at home. I'm not sure how it's going to go, but I'm going with no expectations. That way, my friends, I can't be surprised, let down, or disgruntled.
You know what's exciting, though? Where I'm staying is a mere 13 miles from Heather!!! I am gonna be able to see her almost every day! That is awesome!
I will try to do my best to post updates (via Heather's computer) during the opening, but I'm not promising anything. Wish me luck, and I'll be seeing ya. . .
- - - "Everything ends badly. Otherwise, it wouldn't end."
- - - Bryan Flanagan (Tom Cruise) in COCKTAIL, which I watched again tonight; Love this movie!!!
Goodnight and au revoir,
Sad Sun Fan,
JUSTIN
Thursday, June 01, 2006
Loss. L-O-S-S. Loss
Well I'm bummed right now, so go ahead and read between the lines at the pure depression that has set in. The Phoenix Suns, my favorite sports team on the planet, is now one game away from elimination. Again. A bright thought is our 4-0 record in games so far this postseason when we are facing elimination. Let's just hope we move to 6-0 (that would mean we're going to the Finals).
I watched some of the Scripps National Spelling Bee today. It was nationally televised for the first time (it's usually on ESPN, but tonight it was on ABC - - I watched the preliminary rounds on ESPN) and so it was kind of a big deal. This show reeks of "nerdity" (n-e-r-d-i-t-y; the word's origin - or entymology - is Collegian) and the parents are absolutely hilarious. Apparently a girl won for the first time since 1999 (girl power!) with the word "ursprache" - I have never even heard of that word! These middle schoolers - some even younger! - are incredible! Incredibly deprived of a life, that is. Turns out, there were bets taken in the Vegas circuit as well as around the event! There were bets about if an "e" would be the last letter in the final word (shoulda taken that one!), if the winner would be a glasses-wearer (don't take that one - she wasn't), and which sex the winner would be. That alone makes this a really interesting, funny, and absolutely unnecessary event (but so does the kid who talks into his hand - but that's another story).
Today was a complete loss of a day, speaking of losing. This was the epitome of a boring Summer day. I did almost catch up on HOUSE episodes (I only have two remaining) but other than that, I really feel like I wasted today. I guess it's ok since my next two weeks are gonna be one continuous work period, but I just don't like sitting around home. Call me crazy.
I'm in the mood to laugh tonight because of my sadness (hopefully this is temporary sadness... They better win on Saturday) so I'm probably gonna do a double dip with the two newest films I received from Netflix. The first will be DAVE ATTELL'S INSOMNIAC TOUR (the only reason I got this was because it features Dane Cook) and then THE ORIGINAL KINGS OF COMEDY, the stand-up special featuring Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer, D.L. Hughley, and Bernie Mac. Hopefully laughs are in my future tonight. . .
Have a good night (what's left of it) and I'll see you around tomorrow.
Maybe.
- - - "1-2-3, Spell"
- - - Post-huddle chant by the contestants of the Spelling Bee. . . Wow
Night,
Justin. J-U-S-T-I-N. Justin
I watched some of the Scripps National Spelling Bee today. It was nationally televised for the first time (it's usually on ESPN, but tonight it was on ABC - - I watched the preliminary rounds on ESPN) and so it was kind of a big deal. This show reeks of "nerdity" (n-e-r-d-i-t-y; the word's origin - or entymology - is Collegian) and the parents are absolutely hilarious. Apparently a girl won for the first time since 1999 (girl power!) with the word "ursprache" - I have never even heard of that word! These middle schoolers - some even younger! - are incredible! Incredibly deprived of a life, that is. Turns out, there were bets taken in the Vegas circuit as well as around the event! There were bets about if an "e" would be the last letter in the final word (shoulda taken that one!), if the winner would be a glasses-wearer (don't take that one - she wasn't), and which sex the winner would be. That alone makes this a really interesting, funny, and absolutely unnecessary event (but so does the kid who talks into his hand - but that's another story).
Today was a complete loss of a day, speaking of losing. This was the epitome of a boring Summer day. I did almost catch up on HOUSE episodes (I only have two remaining) but other than that, I really feel like I wasted today. I guess it's ok since my next two weeks are gonna be one continuous work period, but I just don't like sitting around home. Call me crazy.
I'm in the mood to laugh tonight because of my sadness (hopefully this is temporary sadness... They better win on Saturday) so I'm probably gonna do a double dip with the two newest films I received from Netflix. The first will be DAVE ATTELL'S INSOMNIAC TOUR (the only reason I got this was because it features Dane Cook) and then THE ORIGINAL KINGS OF COMEDY, the stand-up special featuring Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer, D.L. Hughley, and Bernie Mac. Hopefully laughs are in my future tonight. . .
Have a good night (what's left of it) and I'll see you around tomorrow.
Maybe.
- - - "1-2-3, Spell"
- - - Post-huddle chant by the contestants of the Spelling Bee. . . Wow
Night,
Justin. J-U-S-T-I-N. Justin
Monday, May 29, 2006
The Memorial Day Weekend Grab-Bag
Well it's been a busy (as predicted) weekend here in Justin-land. From Thursday night on, I have been pretty much on the go on the go on the go (and yes I meant to type that three times). So, you received a preview of my weekend on my last real post, but here is my review of all that transpired over the past four or five days (they all start running together anyway). Enjoy the (as always) nonchronological goodness. . .
- I'll just come right out and say it: X-MEN - THE LAST STAND is, by far, the worst of the three X-MEN movies. That's right. Even though it very nearly destroyed box office records and set a couple of new ones (biggest Memorial Day weekend ever - it bested THE LOST WORLD and SHREK 2) it certainly did not deserve to do so. I still blame The Ratner, that is, Brett Ratner. He is the director and is only other experience is from such films like the RUSH HOURs and RED DRAGON and, well, that is pretty much it (he did AFTER THE SUNSET, with Pierce Brosnan though). They signed him on after series-inspirerer Bryan Singer left X3 to do SUPERMAN RETURNS. I still don't know why. They should have paid Singer more or whatever they had to do to keep him on, but they didn't, and the result is an action-packed, mutant-overwhelming, mishmash of crap. Does it entertain? Yeah, at times. However, when the first two are such good MOVIES, you kinda expect the third to follow suit. Wolverine is awesome (but the character is just plain awesome, so it would be hard for him to not be) as are Beast and Angel. However, because of the plethora (did you say it right Cy?) of new mutants needing screen time, there just isn't enough of it to showcase the really cool ones. It was a big disappointment for me, and I had low expectations. . . Bummer. (Grade: C)
- Ok, so I've gone to sleep past 0200 each of the last four nights (Thursday-Sunday). Yeah. Thursday night was the movie (0300 was bedtime that night). Friday, the super cool day (more later) ended in a bedtime around 0330. Saturday was another eight-hour extravaganza at JOHNNY CARINO'S and put me home around midnight. I had had a rough night at work, so I felt the need to veg, which led to the beginning of a season on NFL BLITZ. I ended my night somewhere in the middle of the season and went to bed around 0230. Sunday night I worked again til after 2300 and then puttered around at home until I finally fell asleep around 0200. So I'm a night owl - - isn't that what a college student has to be???
- The one thing that didn't happen the way I had planned was Saturday. Because of a (one-day) wind storm, the Hot-Air Ballooning did not happen. Heather and I were just somewhat bummed because of our late night on Friday. We will struggle to find a weekend that we can do it though, because she is so busy this summer with work and school. We'll see. Also, she had a lot on her plate anyway for Saturday morning, so I did not actually see her but for two minutes when she came into JC while I was there. You see, in a very bittersweet offering, her grandpa and grandma (both are presently fighting some form of cancer) offered Heather, Chels, and their three cousins (all their ageish) brand new cars! A limit was set and whatever car they presently drive had to be used as a trade-in. As a well-to-do business owner, her grandpa definitely was able to do this wonderful thing for his five granddaughters. Since Heather could only come home this weekend, he wanted to do her and Chels' cars this weekend. Thus, Heather had to do the whole car lot experience on Saturday (she also had a lengthy - and important - massage appointment in there somewhere). Chels and her decided to, for convenience's sake, get a car from the same company. Chels' dream vehicle was a Toyota Tacoma, so Heather picked out the sporty Toyota Rav 4, an SUV. They get to pick them up this week (which means I get to see Heather on Wed. night!). So Saturday was a bit different than I had planned, however the busy work night was there as always.
- I slept in on Sunday, finished my season of BLITZ (I won the Super Bowl with the Cowboys on the last play! I went 19-0, but needed to pull several games out in the waning seconds), ate lunch with my family (minus the hard-working father), and then readied for work. It was slow last night, but the night somehow zoomed by. I only have two more days at the Palmdale store before I head down to Downey. An information meeting tomorrow morning will precede the journey down there this coming weekend. So begins my two weeks of non-stop work and mucho dinero. O, about that, I will have minimal computer access, so my posts will be few and far between. I will when I can, but don't expect daily or bidaily (that's not a word - - I think) posts. It's just not doable. . .
- So I bet you wanna hear about Friday huh? What a day! Running on four hours of sleep, we headed out (we being Chels, Heather, Cy, and myself) around 0930 or so (I can't remember). We arrived at UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD around 1030, which was just a little after they had opened. We went in, and the fun times began. Not only did we have free admission tickets (thanks a million Melissa!) but we also had these "Gate A" passes, which got us to the front of every line at every attraction (rides and shows). We did everything possible in the park save for the Shrek 2 in 4-d thing. No time. The Backlot Tour was awesome (that alone makes it my favorite park I think - - ) and the new MUMMY ride was really really cool (and extremely unexpected - if you've ridden it, you know what I mean). The highlight of our park experience, however, was the Special Effects show (it's over by BACKDRAFT and JURASSIC PARK). They asked for volunteers and Cy and I looked at each other and grinned. We both raised our hands, wanting to do it pretty badly. They said they only took one guy and one girl (sorry, but Cy's hair isn't that long - - o wait, he got a haircuit - - Cy, if only you'd waited a week ha ha). So Cy suggested I do it (thanks for letting me get embarassed bud. . ) and then another girl volunteered (her name was Susie - she was cool). We got to go and do things with the presenters! The best one was this thing they do for THE MUMMY. They put these robes on us and put us on a second story bridge thingy that was supposed to be a prison cell I think. I was put in a position of a prisoner with my hands tied above my head. Susie had to move bricks (they weren't real ones of course). At one moment, since I was clipped to the wall via a belt, they spun the wall around, leaving me in the back and placing a skeleton in the spot I had just been in. Funny stuff, especially for me when I heard the crowd scream :D . . . We did a few other things, but that was the pinnacle for me. Good stuff all around. . . We left the park around 1700 I think and headed down CITY WALK to Buca di Beppo, an Italian restaurant where dinner would be served. It was really good (really good!) and I was also really surprised when my friend Emily walked in! Apparently the whole day had been a "birthday" thing for me set up by my pal Cy (what a guy, huh?). Melissa and Joe (friends of Chels') came too and enjoyed dinner with us. After dinner, we walked City Walk some more, and got some dessert (some got STARBUCKS, others BEN & JERRY'S). We then got a call from Justin and he said he was off work early! So he agreed to meet us at the LAUGH FACTORY, which we arrived at around 2030. Our show was supposed to start at 2200 and we were first in line! However, we weren't let in til 2230 as the past show had run late - it was worth it! Ok, but first, a star sighting from outside! As we stand there, none other than John Mayer walks up and stand directly behind Joe, about five feet from yours truly. Really cool to be close to someone so famous! Well, when we finally headed in, they started the comedy. Bob Saget (yes that Bob Saget) was the featured performer that night, but paused about five minutes into his time and said he wanted to introduce a special guest: John Mayer! So he did comedy, not music, although music would have been better (keep your day job Johnny). Saget returned and did his performance (funny at times, but hard to keep up with - he rambles a lot). My favorite line (for some unknown reason) was "Ew to the third power". Funny in context, believe me. Next up was Johnny Sanchez, who was probably the funniest of the night at times. His impersonation of a 90-year-old black man alone made Heather almost cry! "Skat skat bedat!" Dov Davidoff, an odd-looking comic, did his thing and only made me laugh occasionally. Jo Koy (www.jokoy.com) came on, and he had the best all-around performance. He was hilarious! I'd seen him on the TONIGHT SHOW before, but he did all new material and that was cool. Well he was supposed to be the last one, but then the host (Mike Marino, also very funny) said another special guest had arrived and introduced. . . DANE COOK! The comedy world's number one comic right now was doing comedy in a room of less than 100 and I was there! It was surreal. I would compare it to seeing Larry Bird and Magic Johnson in a pick-up game at the park during their peaks! It was awesome. Not only did he do all new material, he was on for over a half hour! It was awesome!!! They ran our show into the midnight show, giving us a free ride at the two comics who went on next - we got jipped. They weren't very good, but both had their occasional funny joke. How could you follow up to Dane Cook, though? After all of that, we left, and Jo Koy was outside greeting all of us. He's a really cool guy who is on the verge of breaking into the entertainment biz. Good luck man! The drive home was rough, but we made it ok, and then it was sweet bedtime! That day is going into the Hall of Fame of Days - - And that is a fact!
- Whew!
- So today is Memorial Day and I have had a blast with my fam. We were out back for a couple hours playing A-I-M-E-E (our version of H-O-R-S-E; Aimee wanted to play it ha ha) and whatnot. Good stuff all around. I'm not sure what's in store for tonight, but tomorrow morning I have to be at JC at 0900 for that meeting. Here we go . . .
Thanks for reading this far - -
I hope all of you have enjoyed your Monday off and that you have a good week.
Later for nows,
JUSTIN
- I'll just come right out and say it: X-MEN - THE LAST STAND is, by far, the worst of the three X-MEN movies. That's right. Even though it very nearly destroyed box office records and set a couple of new ones (biggest Memorial Day weekend ever - it bested THE LOST WORLD and SHREK 2) it certainly did not deserve to do so. I still blame The Ratner, that is, Brett Ratner. He is the director and is only other experience is from such films like the RUSH HOURs and RED DRAGON and, well, that is pretty much it (he did AFTER THE SUNSET, with Pierce Brosnan though). They signed him on after series-inspirerer Bryan Singer left X3 to do SUPERMAN RETURNS. I still don't know why. They should have paid Singer more or whatever they had to do to keep him on, but they didn't, and the result is an action-packed, mutant-overwhelming, mishmash of crap. Does it entertain? Yeah, at times. However, when the first two are such good MOVIES, you kinda expect the third to follow suit. Wolverine is awesome (but the character is just plain awesome, so it would be hard for him to not be) as are Beast and Angel. However, because of the plethora (did you say it right Cy?) of new mutants needing screen time, there just isn't enough of it to showcase the really cool ones. It was a big disappointment for me, and I had low expectations. . . Bummer. (Grade: C)
- Ok, so I've gone to sleep past 0200 each of the last four nights (Thursday-Sunday). Yeah. Thursday night was the movie (0300 was bedtime that night). Friday, the super cool day (more later) ended in a bedtime around 0330. Saturday was another eight-hour extravaganza at JOHNNY CARINO'S and put me home around midnight. I had had a rough night at work, so I felt the need to veg, which led to the beginning of a season on NFL BLITZ. I ended my night somewhere in the middle of the season and went to bed around 0230. Sunday night I worked again til after 2300 and then puttered around at home until I finally fell asleep around 0200. So I'm a night owl - - isn't that what a college student has to be???
- The one thing that didn't happen the way I had planned was Saturday. Because of a (one-day) wind storm, the Hot-Air Ballooning did not happen. Heather and I were just somewhat bummed because of our late night on Friday. We will struggle to find a weekend that we can do it though, because she is so busy this summer with work and school. We'll see. Also, she had a lot on her plate anyway for Saturday morning, so I did not actually see her but for two minutes when she came into JC while I was there. You see, in a very bittersweet offering, her grandpa and grandma (both are presently fighting some form of cancer) offered Heather, Chels, and their three cousins (all their ageish) brand new cars! A limit was set and whatever car they presently drive had to be used as a trade-in. As a well-to-do business owner, her grandpa definitely was able to do this wonderful thing for his five granddaughters. Since Heather could only come home this weekend, he wanted to do her and Chels' cars this weekend. Thus, Heather had to do the whole car lot experience on Saturday (she also had a lengthy - and important - massage appointment in there somewhere). Chels and her decided to, for convenience's sake, get a car from the same company. Chels' dream vehicle was a Toyota Tacoma, so Heather picked out the sporty Toyota Rav 4, an SUV. They get to pick them up this week (which means I get to see Heather on Wed. night!). So Saturday was a bit different than I had planned, however the busy work night was there as always.
- I slept in on Sunday, finished my season of BLITZ (I won the Super Bowl with the Cowboys on the last play! I went 19-0, but needed to pull several games out in the waning seconds), ate lunch with my family (minus the hard-working father), and then readied for work. It was slow last night, but the night somehow zoomed by. I only have two more days at the Palmdale store before I head down to Downey. An information meeting tomorrow morning will precede the journey down there this coming weekend. So begins my two weeks of non-stop work and mucho dinero. O, about that, I will have minimal computer access, so my posts will be few and far between. I will when I can, but don't expect daily or bidaily (that's not a word - - I think) posts. It's just not doable. . .
- So I bet you wanna hear about Friday huh? What a day! Running on four hours of sleep, we headed out (we being Chels, Heather, Cy, and myself) around 0930 or so (I can't remember). We arrived at UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD around 1030, which was just a little after they had opened. We went in, and the fun times began. Not only did we have free admission tickets (thanks a million Melissa!) but we also had these "Gate A" passes, which got us to the front of every line at every attraction (rides and shows). We did everything possible in the park save for the Shrek 2 in 4-d thing. No time. The Backlot Tour was awesome (that alone makes it my favorite park I think - - ) and the new MUMMY ride was really really cool (and extremely unexpected - if you've ridden it, you know what I mean). The highlight of our park experience, however, was the Special Effects show (it's over by BACKDRAFT and JURASSIC PARK). They asked for volunteers and Cy and I looked at each other and grinned. We both raised our hands, wanting to do it pretty badly. They said they only took one guy and one girl (sorry, but Cy's hair isn't that long - - o wait, he got a haircuit - - Cy, if only you'd waited a week ha ha). So Cy suggested I do it (thanks for letting me get embarassed bud. . ) and then another girl volunteered (her name was Susie - she was cool). We got to go and do things with the presenters! The best one was this thing they do for THE MUMMY. They put these robes on us and put us on a second story bridge thingy that was supposed to be a prison cell I think. I was put in a position of a prisoner with my hands tied above my head. Susie had to move bricks (they weren't real ones of course). At one moment, since I was clipped to the wall via a belt, they spun the wall around, leaving me in the back and placing a skeleton in the spot I had just been in. Funny stuff, especially for me when I heard the crowd scream :D . . . We did a few other things, but that was the pinnacle for me. Good stuff all around. . . We left the park around 1700 I think and headed down CITY WALK to Buca di Beppo, an Italian restaurant where dinner would be served. It was really good (really good!) and I was also really surprised when my friend Emily walked in! Apparently the whole day had been a "birthday" thing for me set up by my pal Cy (what a guy, huh?). Melissa and Joe (friends of Chels') came too and enjoyed dinner with us. After dinner, we walked City Walk some more, and got some dessert (some got STARBUCKS, others BEN & JERRY'S). We then got a call from Justin and he said he was off work early! So he agreed to meet us at the LAUGH FACTORY, which we arrived at around 2030. Our show was supposed to start at 2200 and we were first in line! However, we weren't let in til 2230 as the past show had run late - it was worth it! Ok, but first, a star sighting from outside! As we stand there, none other than John Mayer walks up and stand directly behind Joe, about five feet from yours truly. Really cool to be close to someone so famous! Well, when we finally headed in, they started the comedy. Bob Saget (yes that Bob Saget) was the featured performer that night, but paused about five minutes into his time and said he wanted to introduce a special guest: John Mayer! So he did comedy, not music, although music would have been better (keep your day job Johnny). Saget returned and did his performance (funny at times, but hard to keep up with - he rambles a lot). My favorite line (for some unknown reason) was "Ew to the third power". Funny in context, believe me. Next up was Johnny Sanchez, who was probably the funniest of the night at times. His impersonation of a 90-year-old black man alone made Heather almost cry! "Skat skat bedat!" Dov Davidoff, an odd-looking comic, did his thing and only made me laugh occasionally. Jo Koy (www.jokoy.com) came on, and he had the best all-around performance. He was hilarious! I'd seen him on the TONIGHT SHOW before, but he did all new material and that was cool. Well he was supposed to be the last one, but then the host (Mike Marino, also very funny) said another special guest had arrived and introduced. . . DANE COOK! The comedy world's number one comic right now was doing comedy in a room of less than 100 and I was there! It was surreal. I would compare it to seeing Larry Bird and Magic Johnson in a pick-up game at the park during their peaks! It was awesome. Not only did he do all new material, he was on for over a half hour! It was awesome!!! They ran our show into the midnight show, giving us a free ride at the two comics who went on next - we got jipped. They weren't very good, but both had their occasional funny joke. How could you follow up to Dane Cook, though? After all of that, we left, and Jo Koy was outside greeting all of us. He's a really cool guy who is on the verge of breaking into the entertainment biz. Good luck man! The drive home was rough, but we made it ok, and then it was sweet bedtime! That day is going into the Hall of Fame of Days - - And that is a fact!
- Whew!
- So today is Memorial Day and I have had a blast with my fam. We were out back for a couple hours playing A-I-M-E-E (our version of H-O-R-S-E; Aimee wanted to play it ha ha) and whatnot. Good stuff all around. I'm not sure what's in store for tonight, but tomorrow morning I have to be at JC at 0900 for that meeting. Here we go . . .
Thanks for reading this far - -
I hope all of you have enjoyed your Monday off and that you have a good week.
Later for nows,
JUSTIN
Sunday, May 28, 2006
I Know What I Said, But. . .
I am too tired to post tonight.
I just got back from working another long day (over 14 hours in 2 days) and blogging is the last thing on my mind.
I do, however, have stories for you about my Universal trip, the Laugh Factory, work (those ones are boring), and many other various things that I will provide for you tomorrow.
You'll just have to be patient. . .
O, and here's a little cliffhanger to get you to come back tomorrow: "I saw DANE COOK live!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
That's all for now,
JUSTIN
I just got back from working another long day (over 14 hours in 2 days) and blogging is the last thing on my mind.
I do, however, have stories for you about my Universal trip, the Laugh Factory, work (those ones are boring), and many other various things that I will provide for you tomorrow.
You'll just have to be patient. . .
O, and here's a little cliffhanger to get you to come back tomorrow: "I saw DANE COOK live!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
That's all for now,
JUSTIN
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Welcome to the Layer Cake
So how have you all been? Well I guess I can't hear your answer, but I hope it was a positive one :D - - - Today was a really good day, actually. Here's what it entailed. . .
So I had a crazy scary dream last night. I dreamt that a crazy man (referred to in the dream as a "psycho lumberjack") came into JOHNNY CARINO'S with a sawed-off shotgun and went to town. Yeah, scary, I know. So he goes back to the office and tells those of us in the front not to move or do anything "heroic". Some hero goes to the phone in the front and starts to dial 9-1-1. As he does, we hear a commotion and our manager Ron (he's actually a manager at the Victorville JC, but he's helping us out some days) is all of a sudden being pushed across the restaurant by said lumberjack. We're not sure what's going on, but there are only a few guests anyway, so it's mostly employees. Just then, the crazy man sees the hero at the front (through the glass partition at the front - you'd know if you you've been in there) and raises his shotgun and blows the guy's head off. Scary, I know!!! So as that happens, (I, by the way, am huddled on the ground by our big table - 53 for those of you really wanna know) I stick a chair in front of me and kinda scoot around towards the Host Stand. Just as I'm getting ready to make a run for the door. . .
I wake up. Doesn't that suck!?!? I wanted to know what happened after that, but I couldn't fall back asleep (stupid impatient bladder). O well. I think I made it out ok :D
I got up and did my usual computer/TV stuff in the morning. I made myself some lunch around noon and then popped in LAYER CAKE, an independent film starring the new James Bond Daniel Craig. This is my random movie recommendation. Rent it. Watch it. Love it. It's really quirky, cool, and unpredictable. I really enjoyed it, even though I wasn't always sure what was going on. Overall, a great find. (Grade: A-)
I left for work around 1500 (I had to work at 1630) because I had several errands to run. I stopped and got gas at SAM'S CLUB (thanks Mom-mom: my gift card is now zeroed out :D ), went to the Mall, went to BEST BUY, and then sat in my car for about fifteen minutes before work listening to my new cd (The Fray - really really good).
Work was fine - not as dead as last night, but still pretty slow. I didn't have to close tonight cuz I was not the only TT on! Less money, less hours, but less responsibility. In this instance, I'm fine with that. Today was my fifth straight day at JC, and tomorrow makes six. I'm really tired of that place this week. During work, I was constantly sneaking away to the bar to catch as much of GAME 1 of the Western Conference Finals between my SUNS and the MAVERICKS. It was an intense game (one I will be watching tonight in its entirety thanks to TIVO) and ended on a buzzer-beater shot by BORIS DIAW, the hero for the SUNS tonight! We stole one in Dallas and that alone is exciting. Look out, cuz here come the SUNS!!!
I left there around 2120 and headed to Heather's house (although, without her there, it's kinda silly to call it that). Barbara had called me and said to call her back, but I just decided to visit instead. I let Chels borrow my cd case (containing125 or so cds) to copy onto her IPOD. Don't you just love technology? So I was sitting in the living room with Barbara watching American Idol (My boy TAYLOR won!!! I liked that guy from his first audition and I'm so stoked that he won - his will be the first AI cd that I actually buy for myself) and she tells me the news that I had already heard from Heather via an earlier text: Heather and I are going HOT-AIR BALLOONING on Saturday morning! Yes, my readers, you read that correctly. Heather had gotten a certificate from her mom for her birthday (yes, in December) to go hot-air ballooning. We are finally cashing that in and it's this Saturday. I'm scared and excited. Those babies go high!!!
Now I'm home. I'm gonna change outta the work clothes and then go downstairs and watch the game. I can't wait! So, yeah!
So I'll preview my weekend for ya, seeing that it will be unlikely you will get another new post from me until Sunday. . . We'll see.
- Thursday: Work at 1630, Midnight showing of X-MEN: THE LAST STAND with Heather, Cy, Justin, and a friend of his from work.
- Friday: Universal Studios trip with Heather, Cy, and Chels followed by possible dinner at Universal City Walk, which then leads to the LAUGH FACTORY in Hollywood (either 2000 or 2200 - Bob Saget is the headliner!) and then a trip home late at night.
- Saturday: Hot-air ballooning at 0600 (gotta be there a bit earlier than that) as long as the weather is good, a possible movie with Heather in the early afternoon, and then I work at 1600 (another one of those eight-hour doozies).
SO..... That's why I won't be blogging. But expect a complete recap on Sunday in the the next installment of the WEEKEND GRAB-BAG! (A little self-promotion!)
So goodnight folks - - I hope all is goody good with all of you.
- - - You're born, you take shit. You get out in the world, you take more shit. You climb a little higher, you take less shit. Till one day you're up in the rarefied atmosphere and you've forgotten what shit even looks like. Welcome to the layer cake son.
- - - Eddie Temple to XXXX (the character has no name - but it's Daniel Craig); he calls the above the "Facts of Life"
Later,
Justin
So I had a crazy scary dream last night. I dreamt that a crazy man (referred to in the dream as a "psycho lumberjack") came into JOHNNY CARINO'S with a sawed-off shotgun and went to town. Yeah, scary, I know. So he goes back to the office and tells those of us in the front not to move or do anything "heroic". Some hero goes to the phone in the front and starts to dial 9-1-1. As he does, we hear a commotion and our manager Ron (he's actually a manager at the Victorville JC, but he's helping us out some days) is all of a sudden being pushed across the restaurant by said lumberjack. We're not sure what's going on, but there are only a few guests anyway, so it's mostly employees. Just then, the crazy man sees the hero at the front (through the glass partition at the front - you'd know if you you've been in there) and raises his shotgun and blows the guy's head off. Scary, I know!!! So as that happens, (I, by the way, am huddled on the ground by our big table - 53 for those of you really wanna know) I stick a chair in front of me and kinda scoot around towards the Host Stand. Just as I'm getting ready to make a run for the door. . .
I wake up. Doesn't that suck!?!? I wanted to know what happened after that, but I couldn't fall back asleep (stupid impatient bladder). O well. I think I made it out ok :D
I got up and did my usual computer/TV stuff in the morning. I made myself some lunch around noon and then popped in LAYER CAKE, an independent film starring the new James Bond Daniel Craig. This is my random movie recommendation. Rent it. Watch it. Love it. It's really quirky, cool, and unpredictable. I really enjoyed it, even though I wasn't always sure what was going on. Overall, a great find. (Grade: A-)
I left for work around 1500 (I had to work at 1630) because I had several errands to run. I stopped and got gas at SAM'S CLUB (thanks Mom-mom: my gift card is now zeroed out :D ), went to the Mall, went to BEST BUY, and then sat in my car for about fifteen minutes before work listening to my new cd (The Fray - really really good).
Work was fine - not as dead as last night, but still pretty slow. I didn't have to close tonight cuz I was not the only TT on! Less money, less hours, but less responsibility. In this instance, I'm fine with that. Today was my fifth straight day at JC, and tomorrow makes six. I'm really tired of that place this week. During work, I was constantly sneaking away to the bar to catch as much of GAME 1 of the Western Conference Finals between my SUNS and the MAVERICKS. It was an intense game (one I will be watching tonight in its entirety thanks to TIVO) and ended on a buzzer-beater shot by BORIS DIAW, the hero for the SUNS tonight! We stole one in Dallas and that alone is exciting. Look out, cuz here come the SUNS!!!
I left there around 2120 and headed to Heather's house (although, without her there, it's kinda silly to call it that). Barbara had called me and said to call her back, but I just decided to visit instead. I let Chels borrow my cd case (containing125 or so cds) to copy onto her IPOD. Don't you just love technology? So I was sitting in the living room with Barbara watching American Idol (My boy TAYLOR won!!! I liked that guy from his first audition and I'm so stoked that he won - his will be the first AI cd that I actually buy for myself) and she tells me the news that I had already heard from Heather via an earlier text: Heather and I are going HOT-AIR BALLOONING on Saturday morning! Yes, my readers, you read that correctly. Heather had gotten a certificate from her mom for her birthday (yes, in December) to go hot-air ballooning. We are finally cashing that in and it's this Saturday. I'm scared and excited. Those babies go high!!!
Now I'm home. I'm gonna change outta the work clothes and then go downstairs and watch the game. I can't wait! So, yeah!
So I'll preview my weekend for ya, seeing that it will be unlikely you will get another new post from me until Sunday. . . We'll see.
- Thursday: Work at 1630, Midnight showing of X-MEN: THE LAST STAND with Heather, Cy, Justin, and a friend of his from work.
- Friday: Universal Studios trip with Heather, Cy, and Chels followed by possible dinner at Universal City Walk, which then leads to the LAUGH FACTORY in Hollywood (either 2000 or 2200 - Bob Saget is the headliner!) and then a trip home late at night.
- Saturday: Hot-air ballooning at 0600 (gotta be there a bit earlier than that) as long as the weather is good, a possible movie with Heather in the early afternoon, and then I work at 1600 (another one of those eight-hour doozies).
SO..... That's why I won't be blogging. But expect a complete recap on Sunday in the the next installment of the WEEKEND GRAB-BAG! (A little self-promotion!)
So goodnight folks - - I hope all is goody good with all of you.
- - - You're born, you take shit. You get out in the world, you take more shit. You climb a little higher, you take less shit. Till one day you're up in the rarefied atmosphere and you've forgotten what shit even looks like. Welcome to the layer cake son.
- - - Eddie Temple to XXXX (the character has no name - but it's Daniel Craig); he calls the above the "Facts of Life"
Later,
Justin
Monday, May 22, 2006
An Electric Shooting Exhibition
That's right boys and girls - - My Phoenix Suns are in the Western Conference Finals for the second year in a row! This year, without the injured Amare Stoudamire (which many believed would lead to a completely failed season), we have reached the same spot in the playoffs as we did last year. Two consecutive seven-game series against the teams from Los Angeles has battle-tested us and prepared us for the upstart Dallas Mavericks, the team that beat down the defending champ San Antonio Spurs in seven games as well.
We defeated the Clippers tonight 127-107 in an "Electric Shooting Exhibition" by us; broadcaster (and former NBA head coach) Doug Collins said that at the end of the game. We had three days off between games six and seven, and it seems that was all my boys needed to take it to the other team from Los Angeles. Bring on the Mavs!
This season is going to go down as a success regardless of how we fare in the next round (and the Finals if we can get there). Congratulations to the real MVP (the votes don't lie Kobe or LeBron fans) Steve Nash and the rest of the Phoenix Suns (oodles of DAP to Shawn Marion, Leandro Barbosa, Boris Diaw, Raja Bell, Tim Thomas, and James Jones for their amazing work in the series at one point or another) on their convincing semi-final victory!
GO SUNS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
A Very Excited Fan (and finally, a little boastful),
JUSTIN
(and this is just a gift for all you Los Angeles basketball fans . . . )
Sunday, May 21, 2006
The Week Grab-Bag: The Old School Version
No, I'm not talking about the very funny Will Ferrell-Vince Vaughn-Luke Wilson comedy (although mentioning it does make me laugh). This past week has been filled with experiences that have caused reminiscing by yours truly. You'll see (and maybe, just maybe, you'll reminisce too. . .) what I'm talking about. Just keep on a-readin' internet friend - - (and remember, as always, it just might not be chronological, but it all gets there somehow, so. . .)
- I've been workin like a fool. One of my fellow TTs went on a vacation, so I am taking one of his days, giving me five days. In addition to that, we are one guy short on the weekends, so both yesterday and today we only had two TTs for the entire (busy) restaurant. More money, sure, but much more work. This coming week, I only have one day off (Friday) and I will have almost forty hours when all is said and done. I'm not doing much more than work, so it's ok, but I would like to enjoy my Summer a little more. There are grumblings around the restaurant that we have to be in Downey on June 3, so that's right around the corner. I hope that it's worth it. . .
- So, the Old School? Ok, well as I have mentioned recently, I have purchased SUPER SMASH BROTHERS for Nintendo 64 and have been playing it a bit. Justin has actually come over the last couple Wednesdays and we have played quite lengthily. It's fun to look back at how much time I spent during my middle school years playing the ol' Nintendo. I also have bought NFL BLITZ and EPISODE I: POD RACERS in the last week ($3 each!) so my N64 collection is growing. It's fun. Actually, forget that. It's A LOT of fun!
- On Friday (my day off last week) I wanted nothing more than to spend time with my wonderful Heather who was in town. She came home late Thursday night and I got to see her for a little bit before bedtime. She went to Yoga with Chels early Friday morning and I took the time to go back to Desert Christian High School to see my old favorite teacher/coach Mr. Thomas. I got to talk to him for a little bit, and I also saw a few other people that it was nice to see. After that, I went to the Mall to run some errands before meeting Heather and Chels back at their house. While they were out, they bought some water guns, water balloons, and. . . a SLIP-N-SLIDE! O yes, ladies and gentlemen, that's right. However, there have been vast improvements in the Slip-n-Slide business. Instead of the entire length of it being the same flat surface as the pool at the end, the initial portion is now blow-uppable (make sense - no? Ok, it's inflatable, whatever!). This makes for a much more safe (and comfortable) journey to the pool at the end. Great fun was had, including an air raid of water balloons on Barbara when she got home from work :D - - Friday night, the opportunity presented itself for me to go down to the LB with Heather without driving myself! Chels was going to the Queen Mary for a concert so we figured that she could spend the night at Heather's apartment with me and Heather and then Chels could take me home the next morning. It worked! We did that, and it was really fun. We went to a Japanese restaurant for dinner (my first sushi experience - - I ate chicken teriyaki though ha ha) and met some of Chels' friends there. When we parted ways, Heather and I went to watch JUST LIKE HEAVEN, a not-as-bad-as-I-had-thought romantic comedy featuring loveable Reese Witherspoon and cool Mark Ruffalo. Not a bad film, but certainly not WHEN HARRY MET SALLY. . . (Grade: B-)
- Ok, a quick TV update/review for ya: The season finales of SCRUBS and THE O.C. were on this past week. Both shows: WOW! SCRUBS ended quite jaw-droppingly and I can't wait for next year (although I have to wait til January or so for that!). THE O.C. ended (SPOILER WARNING. . .) exactly as I had predicited with the death of Marisa Cooper. Grumblings had run amok about contract and other disputes between Mischa Barton (the actress) and the producers, so her getting written off the show did not surprise me. Next week sees the season finales of HOUSE (although I am 7 episodes behind right now) and, I think, AMERICAN IDOL (GO TAYLOR!) so I look forward to that.
Well, I have to go to work now - - Dangit.
Have a good Sunday night.
GAME 7 - - SUNS. CLIPPERS. IN PHOENIX. TOMORROW NIGHT. 1930. WATCH! ROOT! CHEER! GO SUNS!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Later y'all,
JUSTIN
- I've been workin like a fool. One of my fellow TTs went on a vacation, so I am taking one of his days, giving me five days. In addition to that, we are one guy short on the weekends, so both yesterday and today we only had two TTs for the entire (busy) restaurant. More money, sure, but much more work. This coming week, I only have one day off (Friday) and I will have almost forty hours when all is said and done. I'm not doing much more than work, so it's ok, but I would like to enjoy my Summer a little more. There are grumblings around the restaurant that we have to be in Downey on June 3, so that's right around the corner. I hope that it's worth it. . .
- So, the Old School? Ok, well as I have mentioned recently, I have purchased SUPER SMASH BROTHERS for Nintendo 64 and have been playing it a bit. Justin has actually come over the last couple Wednesdays and we have played quite lengthily. It's fun to look back at how much time I spent during my middle school years playing the ol' Nintendo. I also have bought NFL BLITZ and EPISODE I: POD RACERS in the last week ($3 each!) so my N64 collection is growing. It's fun. Actually, forget that. It's A LOT of fun!
- On Friday (my day off last week) I wanted nothing more than to spend time with my wonderful Heather who was in town. She came home late Thursday night and I got to see her for a little bit before bedtime. She went to Yoga with Chels early Friday morning and I took the time to go back to Desert Christian High School to see my old favorite teacher/coach Mr. Thomas. I got to talk to him for a little bit, and I also saw a few other people that it was nice to see. After that, I went to the Mall to run some errands before meeting Heather and Chels back at their house. While they were out, they bought some water guns, water balloons, and. . . a SLIP-N-SLIDE! O yes, ladies and gentlemen, that's right. However, there have been vast improvements in the Slip-n-Slide business. Instead of the entire length of it being the same flat surface as the pool at the end, the initial portion is now blow-uppable (make sense - no? Ok, it's inflatable, whatever!). This makes for a much more safe (and comfortable) journey to the pool at the end. Great fun was had, including an air raid of water balloons on Barbara when she got home from work :D - - Friday night, the opportunity presented itself for me to go down to the LB with Heather without driving myself! Chels was going to the Queen Mary for a concert so we figured that she could spend the night at Heather's apartment with me and Heather and then Chels could take me home the next morning. It worked! We did that, and it was really fun. We went to a Japanese restaurant for dinner (my first sushi experience - - I ate chicken teriyaki though ha ha) and met some of Chels' friends there. When we parted ways, Heather and I went to watch JUST LIKE HEAVEN, a not-as-bad-as-I-had-thought romantic comedy featuring loveable Reese Witherspoon and cool Mark Ruffalo. Not a bad film, but certainly not WHEN HARRY MET SALLY. . . (Grade: B-)
- Ok, a quick TV update/review for ya: The season finales of SCRUBS and THE O.C. were on this past week. Both shows: WOW! SCRUBS ended quite jaw-droppingly and I can't wait for next year (although I have to wait til January or so for that!). THE O.C. ended (SPOILER WARNING. . .) exactly as I had predicited with the death of Marisa Cooper. Grumblings had run amok about contract and other disputes between Mischa Barton (the actress) and the producers, so her getting written off the show did not surprise me. Next week sees the season finales of HOUSE (although I am 7 episodes behind right now) and, I think, AMERICAN IDOL (GO TAYLOR!) so I look forward to that.
Well, I have to go to work now - - Dangit.
Have a good Sunday night.
GAME 7 - - SUNS. CLIPPERS. IN PHOENIX. TOMORROW NIGHT. 1930. WATCH! ROOT! CHEER! GO SUNS!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Later y'all,
JUSTIN
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Updating But Not
So, instead of posting an autobiographical post about my Tuesday (of which, you can read most of at Cy's blog - www.insidecy.blogspot.com), I decided I would just mess with my blog and make it beautifulerrific (and yes, I just created that word).
SO. . .
Tell me what you think of the new design. I like it, but tell me what YOU think. Comments are cool and make me feel like someone is reading this besides my parents, grandma, and Cy. And even he just scans it. . .
So, yeah, hit me up with that. And I'm still in the process of getting those pictures from my Laker game (Easter Sunday) and when I post those, I'll divulge my Game 3 stories (Playoff game). That's a deal.
Or no deal (my family likes that show - it's oddly entertaining).
And the PHOENIX SUNS rock!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
An Ecstatic Fan,
Husteen
SO. . .
Tell me what you think of the new design. I like it, but tell me what YOU think. Comments are cool and make me feel like someone is reading this besides my parents, grandma, and Cy. And even he just scans it. . .
So, yeah, hit me up with that. And I'm still in the process of getting those pictures from my Laker game (Easter Sunday) and when I post those, I'll divulge my Game 3 stories (Playoff game). That's a deal.
Or no deal (my family likes that show - it's oddly entertaining).
And the PHOENIX SUNS rock!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
An Ecstatic Fan,
Husteen
Monday, May 15, 2006
I'm No Superman
Been watching a lot of SCRUBS recently. I love the theme song! (It's called "Superman" for those who don't know)
Anyway, since my last updating post, I've done quite a few things. I won't do a complete update today, but I'll give you bits and pieces of my last few days (actually since Cinco De Mayo - so ten days!). . .
As many of you know, I am now 19. My birthday was last Wednesday (the 10th) and I had to work on that night. It was lame, true, but it's not like I could get it off! Either way, I'm 19. And no, I don't feel any older. Nothing big happens when you turn 19. 21 is the big one. It's that one that I'm looking forward to. Cy and I have been planning a Vegas trip for my 21st since we started playing Poker. That's the big birthday.
And, as if on cue, the third season of SCRUBS (my all-time favorite show - period, end of story) came out on DVD on the 9th, so I got it for my birthday via the big sister (Chels - the sister-in-law, actually, but we're just that close at this point!). Of the 22 episodes in the season, I've now watched 19 (ha, that's ironic) in less than a week! I love SCRUBS!
Heather provided a spectacular birthday celebration for me on Friday the 12th. I went and saw her and we went to Seaport Village down in San Diego in the morning. We window-shopped and enjoyed the San Diego weather for a couple hours. We met her dad and his new wife in Carlsbad for lunch at a really nice (and really small!) French restaurant. After that (long) lunch, we went back to Long Beach and saw M:i:III. It was my second time watching the great Tom Cruise actioner and Heather's first. She enjoyed it a lot (as did I). After the movie we went back to her apartment where she spent almost an hour making me a birthday dinner!
Ok, I need to add something here. The dinner was a combo thing. Heather and I had a bet that revolved around AMERICAN IDOL. Her favorite singer of this season's finalists was Paris and mine is Taylor. We have both liked our respective favorites since their first audition and have rooted for them the entire way. When it got down to 10 or so, we made a bet. Whosever favorite got the furthest, the other had to make a romantic dinner for the winner. Paris got voted off a couple weeks ago (and Taylor remains in the TOP 3!) so I won! This dinner served as a birthday thing and a bet thing. You see how we do!
Anyway, dinner was spectacular! She made Chicken Fettucine (spelling? - and I work at an Italian restaurant!) Alfredo and a salad consisting of spinach leaves, strawberries, and pear slices topped with a dressing that she made from scratch! It was really really good and I can't wait for her to cook for me darn near every night once we get married (that's not a sexist comment - she wants to cook!). Her birthday gift for me was absolutely perfect (albeit unfortunate - you'll see). Lately, I've been quoted as saying that if I won the lottery that we would be married in a very short amount of time. Here's why: We could both continue on our schooling and career paths like we are now, but I could support her through the winnings, so we could get married then! That's the idea. Anyways, within my card, I got 10 lottery tickets for Saturday's drawing and a few scratchers. It was maybe the greatest idea ever! Unfortunately, they were not the winning numbers, and I only won $14 from the scratchers. I guess dreams don't always come true. . .
Mother's Day happened, and I had to work (as did everyone employed at JC). What a crazy night! Our restaurant made $25,000 the entire day, which is about double a usual weekend night. It was busy, to say the least!
But tonight, my family and I went to Valencia to go to CLAIM JUMPERS for my birthday dinner (cuz I worked on that night) slash Mother's Day dinner. It was a lot of fun. We ended up going to COLDSTONE on the way back (my new craze - I'm eating it almost once a week). My favorite one right now (it's a creation of mine) is Cheesecake Ice Cream with Cookie Dough and Gummi Bears! I love it so don't knock it! Anyways, yeah, that's the truth about that.
I'll update again tomorrow with more stuff. And this time, I really will. . .
O, and this post is for Heather :D
- - - "I know what I've been told. Ya gotta know just when to fold. But I can't do this all on my own. No I know I'm no Superman. I'm no Superman."
- - - "Superman" by Lazlo Bane
Later y'all,
The Big 1-9 Justin
Anyway, since my last updating post, I've done quite a few things. I won't do a complete update today, but I'll give you bits and pieces of my last few days (actually since Cinco De Mayo - so ten days!). . .
As many of you know, I am now 19. My birthday was last Wednesday (the 10th) and I had to work on that night. It was lame, true, but it's not like I could get it off! Either way, I'm 19. And no, I don't feel any older. Nothing big happens when you turn 19. 21 is the big one. It's that one that I'm looking forward to. Cy and I have been planning a Vegas trip for my 21st since we started playing Poker. That's the big birthday.
And, as if on cue, the third season of SCRUBS (my all-time favorite show - period, end of story) came out on DVD on the 9th, so I got it for my birthday via the big sister (Chels - the sister-in-law, actually, but we're just that close at this point!). Of the 22 episodes in the season, I've now watched 19 (ha, that's ironic) in less than a week! I love SCRUBS!
Heather provided a spectacular birthday celebration for me on Friday the 12th. I went and saw her and we went to Seaport Village down in San Diego in the morning. We window-shopped and enjoyed the San Diego weather for a couple hours. We met her dad and his new wife in Carlsbad for lunch at a really nice (and really small!) French restaurant. After that (long) lunch, we went back to Long Beach and saw M:i:III. It was my second time watching the great Tom Cruise actioner and Heather's first. She enjoyed it a lot (as did I). After the movie we went back to her apartment where she spent almost an hour making me a birthday dinner!
Ok, I need to add something here. The dinner was a combo thing. Heather and I had a bet that revolved around AMERICAN IDOL. Her favorite singer of this season's finalists was Paris and mine is Taylor. We have both liked our respective favorites since their first audition and have rooted for them the entire way. When it got down to 10 or so, we made a bet. Whosever favorite got the furthest, the other had to make a romantic dinner for the winner. Paris got voted off a couple weeks ago (and Taylor remains in the TOP 3!) so I won! This dinner served as a birthday thing and a bet thing. You see how we do!
Anyway, dinner was spectacular! She made Chicken Fettucine (spelling? - and I work at an Italian restaurant!) Alfredo and a salad consisting of spinach leaves, strawberries, and pear slices topped with a dressing that she made from scratch! It was really really good and I can't wait for her to cook for me darn near every night once we get married (that's not a sexist comment - she wants to cook!). Her birthday gift for me was absolutely perfect (albeit unfortunate - you'll see). Lately, I've been quoted as saying that if I won the lottery that we would be married in a very short amount of time. Here's why: We could both continue on our schooling and career paths like we are now, but I could support her through the winnings, so we could get married then! That's the idea. Anyways, within my card, I got 10 lottery tickets for Saturday's drawing and a few scratchers. It was maybe the greatest idea ever! Unfortunately, they were not the winning numbers, and I only won $14 from the scratchers. I guess dreams don't always come true. . .
Mother's Day happened, and I had to work (as did everyone employed at JC). What a crazy night! Our restaurant made $25,000 the entire day, which is about double a usual weekend night. It was busy, to say the least!
But tonight, my family and I went to Valencia to go to CLAIM JUMPERS for my birthday dinner (cuz I worked on that night) slash Mother's Day dinner. It was a lot of fun. We ended up going to COLDSTONE on the way back (my new craze - I'm eating it almost once a week). My favorite one right now (it's a creation of mine) is Cheesecake Ice Cream with Cookie Dough and Gummi Bears! I love it so don't knock it! Anyways, yeah, that's the truth about that.
I'll update again tomorrow with more stuff. And this time, I really will. . .
O, and this post is for Heather :D
- - - "I know what I've been told. Ya gotta know just when to fold. But I can't do this all on my own. No I know I'm no Superman. I'm no Superman."
- - - "Superman" by Lazlo Bane
Later y'all,
The Big 1-9 Justin
Sunday, May 14, 2006
Happy Mama's Day!
Just a quick post, giving a very big HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY to all of those mom's out there. Specifically, I'd like to mention the moms who are very close to me:
- Barbara (my mama in law!)
- Mom-Mom
- GP
- Grandma Pam
- Muna
- Great-Grandma Rekittke
- Aunt Jeanne
- Aunt Debbie
- Mrs. Serrano
- Mrs. Lebens (Miss Nancy!)
- And of course, the number one mom in the world: Mi Madre!
I love you all! Thanks for everything you do!
Until later,
A Son
- Barbara (my mama in law!)
- Mom-Mom
- GP
- Grandma Pam
- Muna
- Great-Grandma Rekittke
- Aunt Jeanne
- Aunt Debbie
- Mrs. Serrano
- Mrs. Lebens (Miss Nancy!)
- And of course, the number one mom in the world: Mi Madre!
I love you all! Thanks for everything you do!
Until later,
A Son
Sunday, May 07, 2006
The Summer Movie Preview (In Order!)
Alright everybody, welcome to Sunday Sunday Sunday! As stated in the last blog, I wanted to give you all a most anticipated list of Summer movies. O and for further info, trailers (when available), or whatever you want to know, visit one of these websites: http://www.comingsoon.net/database.php, http://www.imdb.com/ So, without further ado, here is the list of the 25 movies that intrigue, interest, or just inspire me to go the theater (in order from least to most exciting):
Wildcard - MY SUPER EX-GIRLFRIEND (07/21): This film has yet to feature a trailer, so it's hard to anticipate it. However, Uma Thurman and Luke Wilson in a romantic comedy (of sorts) directed by the guy who brought us GHOSTBUSTERS. Uma is a superhero who is angered by Luke when he dumps her. Superpowers plus anger equals uh oh! We'll see. Thus, the wildcard!
25. STRANGERS WITH CANDY (06/28): I have never seen the show on Comedy Central, but I've heard it's quite the cult classic of tv shows. The presence of Stephen Colbert alone makes me want to see this movie which is why it holds the 25 position.
24. THE LAKE HOUSE (06/16): A dramatic romance on my must-see Summer list??? Well, the trailer is rather intriguing, and I actually wouldn't mind seeing how they end it. Although I'm quite skeptical of Keanu Reeves doing romance (however, he is acting against former film love interest Sandra Bullock in this one - SPEED is a good flick) but the idea is interesting. In a nutshell, its about a woman who, while occupying an unusual lakeside home, begins exchanging love letters with its newest resident (Keanu). When they discover that they're actually living two years apart, they must try to unravel the mystery behind their extraordinary romance before it's too late. Whoa. (That's a Neo joke y'all!)
23. OVER THE HEDGE (05/19): Another animated animal movie. This one has the voices of Steve Carell (my boy!), Wanda Sykes (very funny), and Bruce Willis (yes, that Bruce Willis). Looks like it could be funny.
22. LITTLE MAN (07/05): This is my guilty pleasure film of the Summer. I'm ashamed to say I think it's funny, but I don't care at the same time. The Wayans brothers put together this film about a short person thief (Marlon Wayans via CGI) who goes undercover as a baby. He pretends to be a little baby for a family that has what he wants in their house or something. It looks stupid, inappropriate, and goofy. Count me in!
21. CARS (06/09): The newest Disney/Pixar film about - you guessed it - cars! The rumor mill has this one not being so great, but Pixar films are never bad (read: MONSTERS INC., FINDING NEMO, INCREDIBLES) so I gotta give it a chance. Voice credits include Owen Wilson, Paul Newman, and Larry the Cable guy. Git-r-done!
20. AN INCONVENIENT TRUTH (05/24): This is a documentary made by and starring. . . Al Gore? Yes, our former Vice President and Presidential-hopeful, he has made a movie. This film, though, is about him discussing global warming and the potential disasters of it. The trailer is creepy because, well, it's real life! Interesting movie - thought-provoking, to be sure.
19. THE ILLUSIONIST (08/18): I can explain my interest in this movie in five words - Ed Norton, Paul Giamatti, Magicians. Get it?
18. THE OMEN (06/06): This horror remake usually wouldn't be anywhere near a list of mine, but it looks really creepy (read: good for a horror movie) and I'm oddly interested. Plus, this is pretty much the only horror movie coming out til the Fall and Halloween. I need something to tide me over til SAW III!
17. IDLEWILD (08/25): This is a musical set in the Prohibition era starring, well, people you wouldn't expect. The two members of the rap/R&B group Outkast have created this movie for their new cd. Basically, they star in the movie and the songs for the movie are their new tracks for their new cd. I'm there!
16. LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE (07/28): This indie comedy starring the likes of Steve Carell (again, but in a much different manner), Greg Kinnear, and Toni Collette look quirky and dark. The preview is enticing, and I'm very interested in seeing why this film was so heralded at the film festivals.
15. MIAMI VICE (07/28): This action film would leave many going "Why?" but I'll give you three names - Colin Farrell, Jamie Foxx, and Michael Mann. The former two are your headliners, playing Crockett and Tubbs, the Miami police officers made famous in the 1980's show, and Mann, director of gritty films COLLATERAL and HEAT, is the guy behind the camera. The trailer makes it look nothing like the original, somewhat cheesy, cop show. That would be Mann's influence. And I'm definitely influenced!
14. LADY IN THE WATER (07/21): M. Night Shyamalan's new flick has been kept under heavy wraps. All we know is that an apartment building superintendent (Paul Giamatti) finds a nymph, a mermaid-like creature, in the pool. Shyamalan is trying to see how many people will come to see a movie by him, I guess. I like Giamatti a lot, so I'm gonna go, but I'm not sure what to expect from a movie preface by "A Bedtime Story from M. Night Shyamalan". We'll see.
13-10. (in no particular order) THE BREAK-UP (06/02), NACHO LIBRE (06/16), CLICK (06/23), and TALLADEGA NIGHTS...(08/04): These are the big summer comedies. The big comedy guns are out, with films from Vince Vaughn, Jack Black, Adam Sandler, and Will Ferrell respectively. They all appear pretty funny, but all have the potential of being bad films. They are tied on my list because it's impossible for me to pick one over the other. I'll see them all and let you know later which one wins :D
9. SNAKES ON A PLANE (08/18): The internet-driven cult film (how can it be a cult classic and it's not even out yet?!?!) looks great! Samuel L. Jackson stars in the self-explanatory film. Yes, the title is exactly what the film is about. How can you not be excited about this one!
8. X-MEN: THE LAST STAND (05/26): Yeah, it's further down on my list then most of the other lists you'll find, but there's good reason. No Bryan Singer (the director of the first two) and no Nightcrawler (the biggest reason that X2 is better than X1). Although it does look exciting, I'm not sure if it's just gonna be a big spectacle with lots of visual effects. That's good from time to time, but the first two are such good films!
7. POSEIDON (05/12): Next Friday this film erupts onto the scene. I was extremely skeptical about this one when I first heard about it, but after trailers hit the internet, I was blown away. A good cast (Kurt Russell, Richard Dreyfuss, Josh Lucas, and Tom's girlfriend Emmy Rossum) makes the effects the second reason to see this one. It looks intense! Plus, director Wolfgang Petersen (who brought us TROY and THE PERFECT STORM) can do big waves and we know it! O yes!
6. A SCANNER DARKLY (07/07): I've been waiting and waiting for this film to finally get released and the Summer finally brings it to me. This odd-looking film stars Keanu Reeves, Winona Ryder, Woody Harrelson, and one of my favorite actors ever: Robert Downey Jr. It was written (adapted from a Philip K. Dick short stroy) and directed by the great Richard Linklater using the same techniques as he used in WAKING LIFE. I can't wait for this one!
Now, the TOP 5!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
5. SUPERMAN RETURNS (06/30): I gave you all access to the trailer for this one a couple days ago, and if you utilized that link, then you know why it's so high on my list. Kevin Spacey alone would get me into the theatre, but it's freakin' SUPERMAN!!! It looks exciting, action-packed, and did I mention that Kevin Spacey is Lex Luthor!!!! Good stuff all around.
4. CLERKS 2 (08/18): The sequel to the 1994 comedy brings good ol' Kevin Smith back into the limelight. Although he had previously stated that there would be no more Jay and Silent Bob movies, he came back with this one, which has Dante and Randal moving on to there 30's. The trailers are funny and Kevin Smith alone would bring me to see the film. Hands down, the most anticipated comedy for yours truly.
3. THE DA VINCI CODE (05/19): The most controversial film of the Summer is this Ron Howard-directed film based on the best selling book of the past couple years. I read the book over Spring Break in anticipation of the film, and it was every bit as good as people said. I could not put it down! Thus, this film flew up my charts and landed at number 3. Tom Hanks would not be my first choice as Robert Langdon, but he'll definitely do. I love Ian McKellen as Teabing! Great casting there. I know, I know, it's claimed as evil by the church and all that jazz, but ladies and gentlemen, guess what: IT'S FICTION!!! Either way, it's a thought-provoking, entertaining, and altogether awesome book that hopefully translates into a film that's just as good!
2. THE PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MAN'S CHEST (07/07): No words are needed for this one. But I'll give you some anyway :D The trailer is awesome, Johnny Depp is in it, and the action looks intense! All around, this film looks to be just spectacular, and I would suggest that it looks like the best Summer movie and the one that I would forward to the most.
HOWEVER. . .
1. MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE 3 (05/05): I've already seen it and it lived up to every expectation I had. Tom Cruise, however crazy he may be, is the best movie star out there. His movies are always good (I have yet to see one I don't even kinda like) and this one is the best action film that he has done yet (I consider MINORITY REPORT to be a drama). Philip Seymour Hoffman is the best villain yet in the MISSION films, and he shows his range that has so been deserving of an Oscar (I'm not saying this film earns him an Oscar, but he shows why he won one this past year). It's tense, entertaining, funny, and altogether amazing. You think you can find me a better Summer movie and I say: "Mission: Impossible"! (Grade: A-)
Well folks, there you have it. If you've reached the end of this, then I commend you. That was a lot!!! It has taken me an hour to do this, so I hope you appreciate the effort :D
Happy Movie Watching!!!
The Summer Movie Rambler,
JUSTIN
Wildcard - MY SUPER EX-GIRLFRIEND (07/21): This film has yet to feature a trailer, so it's hard to anticipate it. However, Uma Thurman and Luke Wilson in a romantic comedy (of sorts) directed by the guy who brought us GHOSTBUSTERS. Uma is a superhero who is angered by Luke when he dumps her. Superpowers plus anger equals uh oh! We'll see. Thus, the wildcard!
25. STRANGERS WITH CANDY (06/28): I have never seen the show on Comedy Central, but I've heard it's quite the cult classic of tv shows. The presence of Stephen Colbert alone makes me want to see this movie which is why it holds the 25 position.
24. THE LAKE HOUSE (06/16): A dramatic romance on my must-see Summer list??? Well, the trailer is rather intriguing, and I actually wouldn't mind seeing how they end it. Although I'm quite skeptical of Keanu Reeves doing romance (however, he is acting against former film love interest Sandra Bullock in this one - SPEED is a good flick) but the idea is interesting. In a nutshell, its about a woman who, while occupying an unusual lakeside home, begins exchanging love letters with its newest resident (Keanu). When they discover that they're actually living two years apart, they must try to unravel the mystery behind their extraordinary romance before it's too late. Whoa. (That's a Neo joke y'all!)
23. OVER THE HEDGE (05/19): Another animated animal movie. This one has the voices of Steve Carell (my boy!), Wanda Sykes (very funny), and Bruce Willis (yes, that Bruce Willis). Looks like it could be funny.
22. LITTLE MAN (07/05): This is my guilty pleasure film of the Summer. I'm ashamed to say I think it's funny, but I don't care at the same time. The Wayans brothers put together this film about a short person thief (Marlon Wayans via CGI) who goes undercover as a baby. He pretends to be a little baby for a family that has what he wants in their house or something. It looks stupid, inappropriate, and goofy. Count me in!
21. CARS (06/09): The newest Disney/Pixar film about - you guessed it - cars! The rumor mill has this one not being so great, but Pixar films are never bad (read: MONSTERS INC., FINDING NEMO, INCREDIBLES) so I gotta give it a chance. Voice credits include Owen Wilson, Paul Newman, and Larry the Cable guy. Git-r-done!
20. AN INCONVENIENT TRUTH (05/24): This is a documentary made by and starring. . . Al Gore? Yes, our former Vice President and Presidential-hopeful, he has made a movie. This film, though, is about him discussing global warming and the potential disasters of it. The trailer is creepy because, well, it's real life! Interesting movie - thought-provoking, to be sure.
19. THE ILLUSIONIST (08/18): I can explain my interest in this movie in five words - Ed Norton, Paul Giamatti, Magicians. Get it?
18. THE OMEN (06/06): This horror remake usually wouldn't be anywhere near a list of mine, but it looks really creepy (read: good for a horror movie) and I'm oddly interested. Plus, this is pretty much the only horror movie coming out til the Fall and Halloween. I need something to tide me over til SAW III!
17. IDLEWILD (08/25): This is a musical set in the Prohibition era starring, well, people you wouldn't expect. The two members of the rap/R&B group Outkast have created this movie for their new cd. Basically, they star in the movie and the songs for the movie are their new tracks for their new cd. I'm there!
16. LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE (07/28): This indie comedy starring the likes of Steve Carell (again, but in a much different manner), Greg Kinnear, and Toni Collette look quirky and dark. The preview is enticing, and I'm very interested in seeing why this film was so heralded at the film festivals.
15. MIAMI VICE (07/28): This action film would leave many going "Why?" but I'll give you three names - Colin Farrell, Jamie Foxx, and Michael Mann. The former two are your headliners, playing Crockett and Tubbs, the Miami police officers made famous in the 1980's show, and Mann, director of gritty films COLLATERAL and HEAT, is the guy behind the camera. The trailer makes it look nothing like the original, somewhat cheesy, cop show. That would be Mann's influence. And I'm definitely influenced!
14. LADY IN THE WATER (07/21): M. Night Shyamalan's new flick has been kept under heavy wraps. All we know is that an apartment building superintendent (Paul Giamatti) finds a nymph, a mermaid-like creature, in the pool. Shyamalan is trying to see how many people will come to see a movie by him, I guess. I like Giamatti a lot, so I'm gonna go, but I'm not sure what to expect from a movie preface by "A Bedtime Story from M. Night Shyamalan". We'll see.
13-10. (in no particular order) THE BREAK-UP (06/02), NACHO LIBRE (06/16), CLICK (06/23), and TALLADEGA NIGHTS...(08/04): These are the big summer comedies. The big comedy guns are out, with films from Vince Vaughn, Jack Black, Adam Sandler, and Will Ferrell respectively. They all appear pretty funny, but all have the potential of being bad films. They are tied on my list because it's impossible for me to pick one over the other. I'll see them all and let you know later which one wins :D
9. SNAKES ON A PLANE (08/18): The internet-driven cult film (how can it be a cult classic and it's not even out yet?!?!) looks great! Samuel L. Jackson stars in the self-explanatory film. Yes, the title is exactly what the film is about. How can you not be excited about this one!
8. X-MEN: THE LAST STAND (05/26): Yeah, it's further down on my list then most of the other lists you'll find, but there's good reason. No Bryan Singer (the director of the first two) and no Nightcrawler (the biggest reason that X2 is better than X1). Although it does look exciting, I'm not sure if it's just gonna be a big spectacle with lots of visual effects. That's good from time to time, but the first two are such good films!
7. POSEIDON (05/12): Next Friday this film erupts onto the scene. I was extremely skeptical about this one when I first heard about it, but after trailers hit the internet, I was blown away. A good cast (Kurt Russell, Richard Dreyfuss, Josh Lucas, and Tom's girlfriend Emmy Rossum) makes the effects the second reason to see this one. It looks intense! Plus, director Wolfgang Petersen (who brought us TROY and THE PERFECT STORM) can do big waves and we know it! O yes!
6. A SCANNER DARKLY (07/07): I've been waiting and waiting for this film to finally get released and the Summer finally brings it to me. This odd-looking film stars Keanu Reeves, Winona Ryder, Woody Harrelson, and one of my favorite actors ever: Robert Downey Jr. It was written (adapted from a Philip K. Dick short stroy) and directed by the great Richard Linklater using the same techniques as he used in WAKING LIFE. I can't wait for this one!
Now, the TOP 5!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
5. SUPERMAN RETURNS (06/30): I gave you all access to the trailer for this one a couple days ago, and if you utilized that link, then you know why it's so high on my list. Kevin Spacey alone would get me into the theatre, but it's freakin' SUPERMAN!!! It looks exciting, action-packed, and did I mention that Kevin Spacey is Lex Luthor!!!! Good stuff all around.
4. CLERKS 2 (08/18): The sequel to the 1994 comedy brings good ol' Kevin Smith back into the limelight. Although he had previously stated that there would be no more Jay and Silent Bob movies, he came back with this one, which has Dante and Randal moving on to there 30's. The trailers are funny and Kevin Smith alone would bring me to see the film. Hands down, the most anticipated comedy for yours truly.
3. THE DA VINCI CODE (05/19): The most controversial film of the Summer is this Ron Howard-directed film based on the best selling book of the past couple years. I read the book over Spring Break in anticipation of the film, and it was every bit as good as people said. I could not put it down! Thus, this film flew up my charts and landed at number 3. Tom Hanks would not be my first choice as Robert Langdon, but he'll definitely do. I love Ian McKellen as Teabing! Great casting there. I know, I know, it's claimed as evil by the church and all that jazz, but ladies and gentlemen, guess what: IT'S FICTION!!! Either way, it's a thought-provoking, entertaining, and altogether awesome book that hopefully translates into a film that's just as good!
2. THE PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MAN'S CHEST (07/07): No words are needed for this one. But I'll give you some anyway :D The trailer is awesome, Johnny Depp is in it, and the action looks intense! All around, this film looks to be just spectacular, and I would suggest that it looks like the best Summer movie and the one that I would forward to the most.
HOWEVER. . .
1. MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE 3 (05/05): I've already seen it and it lived up to every expectation I had. Tom Cruise, however crazy he may be, is the best movie star out there. His movies are always good (I have yet to see one I don't even kinda like) and this one is the best action film that he has done yet (I consider MINORITY REPORT to be a drama). Philip Seymour Hoffman is the best villain yet in the MISSION films, and he shows his range that has so been deserving of an Oscar (I'm not saying this film earns him an Oscar, but he shows why he won one this past year). It's tense, entertaining, funny, and altogether amazing. You think you can find me a better Summer movie and I say: "Mission: Impossible"! (Grade: A-)
Well folks, there you have it. If you've reached the end of this, then I commend you. That was a lot!!! It has taken me an hour to do this, so I hope you appreciate the effort :D
Happy Movie Watching!!!
The Summer Movie Rambler,
JUSTIN
Friday, May 05, 2006
Here's To...
Ok, so I am way behind on blogging. I understand that. Let's assume that I'm starting anew. I used to blog upwards of five times a week, so I definitely should be excused from missing a month or so (although at least I provided you with papers and movie trailer links!). So, in honor of my return to consistent blogging (I am officially out of school as of 1200 today), I would like to propose a toast.
So, here's to. . .
- the Phoenix Suns, my team, for doing what nobody expected them to do. Down three games to one in a best of seven series to the Los Angeles Lakers, they have no won two in a row to put this game to a decisive game seven in Phoenix. My boys played a helluva game last night and need a repeat performance tomorrow night in order to win this series. It all comes down to tomorrow night baby! I'm excited, anticipatory, and jazzed about the possibility of a complete comeback, especially with all of the crap that I got (that's another story) from Laker fans over the last week when we were down. Now, we have the edge! I think it's actually quite redeeming considering that everyone had written the Suns off and were preparing for the so-called Highway Series with the Clippers. Well ha on you! I read no less than three articles (two on ESPN.COM and one in Sports Illustrated) saying how great an all-Los Angeles series would be. Well, guess what? It might not happen! Go SUNS!!!
- Finishing off strong. With clutch performances in my classes, I believe I did enough to maintain a GPA good enough to stay in the Honors Program at AVC. It's looking like I'm gonna be staring at a 3.4 this semester, which I am quite content with, considering the classes I took. My greatest accomplishments were getting a perfect score on my History paper (which you read here first!) and pulling off a B in Astronomy, which proved to be harder than expected. I'm looking forward to the Summer vacation that lies in front of me and the rest that I feel I earned! Whether I do or not (that's up to discussion) I get it, so take that naysayers!
- Summer movies. With the release of Tom Cruise's M:i:III this weekend, the summer blockbuster season has begun. I will post my top 25 films of the Summer (yes, I prepared such a list) this weekend so you can view the wonderment of it all. Grab your buddy, some popcorn, and a five-dollar bill and have a seat and enjoy the over-the-top action, lack of plot, and absolute fun of summer movies!
- Loved ones. I am actually writing this from a certain CSULB student's laptop in a Long Beach studio apartment. I am down here with Aimee celebrating her birthday. Heather and I took her to the mall to shop for a bathing suit (something only the best big brothers can do) and then to dinner. They just went to Target to buy some games or something for the rest of the night and I am here at her apartment. I really miss being around Heather, especially now that summer is about to begin. It's very difficult and apparently I feel the need to complain as much as I can about it. I can't help it! Anywho, Aimee is now 14 and that is no good. She is gonna be a freshman (is it freshperson now?) in September and I can't believe it! She's a cute girl too. I pity those poor boys who have to meet me :D
- May. This month is big for my immediate family. Yesterday was Aimee's birthday, Sunday is my parent's anniversary, and next Wednesday is the birthday of yours truly. That's right, folks, The Rambler is finally turning 19. Look out! Either way, it's quite exciting this time of year around the Gott house.
- Downey. The small town in Southern California is going to be getting a JOHNNY CARINO'S next month and I will be assisting in the opening of it. That's right, yours truly will be a-trainin' for about two weeks in June. I am actually going as a TT trainer (would that be TTT?) so I'm a bit nervous, but looking forward to the megabucks I hope to make out of the 14 hour days!
- Laker fans (the bums). I'll write more on this after Game 7. I went to Game 3 with George (in L.A.) and I went wearing a Steve Nash jersey. Stories will follow at a later date. Trust me, they're worth the wait!
- Understanding Internet Readers. You, the kind folks of the Internet, have waited as I have done nothing on this here blog for so long, and now you will reap the whirlwind that is many many blogs :D Have no fear, for I am now here!
Alright folks, with that tribute to you (aren't I the best?) I am going to retire for the night. The girls are due back any minute and we'll have a fun night I'm sure. Aimee and I head back home in the morning so wish us luck on the drive home. Good stuff.
Thanks for hanging around everyone. You won't regret it - - -
- - - "Here's to the night we felt alive
Here's to the tears you knew you'd cry
Here's to goodbye tomorrow's going to come to soon"
- - - EVE 6's "Here's to the Night"
THE RAMBLER
So, here's to. . .
- the Phoenix Suns, my team, for doing what nobody expected them to do. Down three games to one in a best of seven series to the Los Angeles Lakers, they have no won two in a row to put this game to a decisive game seven in Phoenix. My boys played a helluva game last night and need a repeat performance tomorrow night in order to win this series. It all comes down to tomorrow night baby! I'm excited, anticipatory, and jazzed about the possibility of a complete comeback, especially with all of the crap that I got (that's another story) from Laker fans over the last week when we were down. Now, we have the edge! I think it's actually quite redeeming considering that everyone had written the Suns off and were preparing for the so-called Highway Series with the Clippers. Well ha on you! I read no less than three articles (two on ESPN.COM and one in Sports Illustrated) saying how great an all-Los Angeles series would be. Well, guess what? It might not happen! Go SUNS!!!
- Finishing off strong. With clutch performances in my classes, I believe I did enough to maintain a GPA good enough to stay in the Honors Program at AVC. It's looking like I'm gonna be staring at a 3.4 this semester, which I am quite content with, considering the classes I took. My greatest accomplishments were getting a perfect score on my History paper (which you read here first!) and pulling off a B in Astronomy, which proved to be harder than expected. I'm looking forward to the Summer vacation that lies in front of me and the rest that I feel I earned! Whether I do or not (that's up to discussion) I get it, so take that naysayers!
- Summer movies. With the release of Tom Cruise's M:i:III this weekend, the summer blockbuster season has begun. I will post my top 25 films of the Summer (yes, I prepared such a list) this weekend so you can view the wonderment of it all. Grab your buddy, some popcorn, and a five-dollar bill and have a seat and enjoy the over-the-top action, lack of plot, and absolute fun of summer movies!
- Loved ones. I am actually writing this from a certain CSULB student's laptop in a Long Beach studio apartment. I am down here with Aimee celebrating her birthday. Heather and I took her to the mall to shop for a bathing suit (something only the best big brothers can do) and then to dinner. They just went to Target to buy some games or something for the rest of the night and I am here at her apartment. I really miss being around Heather, especially now that summer is about to begin. It's very difficult and apparently I feel the need to complain as much as I can about it. I can't help it! Anywho, Aimee is now 14 and that is no good. She is gonna be a freshman (is it freshperson now?) in September and I can't believe it! She's a cute girl too. I pity those poor boys who have to meet me :D
- May. This month is big for my immediate family. Yesterday was Aimee's birthday, Sunday is my parent's anniversary, and next Wednesday is the birthday of yours truly. That's right, folks, The Rambler is finally turning 19. Look out! Either way, it's quite exciting this time of year around the Gott house.
- Downey. The small town in Southern California is going to be getting a JOHNNY CARINO'S next month and I will be assisting in the opening of it. That's right, yours truly will be a-trainin' for about two weeks in June. I am actually going as a TT trainer (would that be TTT?) so I'm a bit nervous, but looking forward to the megabucks I hope to make out of the 14 hour days!
- Laker fans (the bums). I'll write more on this after Game 7. I went to Game 3 with George (in L.A.) and I went wearing a Steve Nash jersey. Stories will follow at a later date. Trust me, they're worth the wait!
- Understanding Internet Readers. You, the kind folks of the Internet, have waited as I have done nothing on this here blog for so long, and now you will reap the whirlwind that is many many blogs :D Have no fear, for I am now here!
Alright folks, with that tribute to you (aren't I the best?) I am going to retire for the night. The girls are due back any minute and we'll have a fun night I'm sure. Aimee and I head back home in the morning so wish us luck on the drive home. Good stuff.
Thanks for hanging around everyone. You won't regret it - - -
- - - "Here's to the night we felt alive
Here's to the tears you knew you'd cry
Here's to goodbye tomorrow's going to come to soon"
- - - EVE 6's "Here's to the Night"
THE RAMBLER
Monday, May 01, 2006
Dead Man's Chest Returns!
I'm not talking about me, even though none of you would know seeing my complete lack of blogs over the last two weeks. Understand, please, that I have been so very busy completing my second semester at AVC. I only have four finals this week and that will be it so expect more blogs in the coming weeks. Until then, let me give you a link to the new trailers of #2 and #5 on my most anticipated list of summer movies (my twin Tom Cruise's little film, you might have heard of it, M:i:III is numero uno!).
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MAN'S CHEST
http://www.totaleclips.com/Player/Bounce.aspx?eclipid=e27307&bitrateid=242&vendorid=566
SUPERMAN RETURNS
http://movies.apple.com/movies/wb/superman_returns/superman_returns-tlr2_h.640.mov
They might take awhile to load, but they're totally worth it. Enjoy!
HUSTEEN
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MAN'S CHEST
http://www.totaleclips.com/Player/Bounce.aspx?eclipid=e27307&bitrateid=242&vendorid=566
SUPERMAN RETURNS
http://movies.apple.com/movies/wb/superman_returns/superman_returns-tlr2_h.640.mov
They might take awhile to load, but they're totally worth it. Enjoy!
HUSTEEN
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