Lots to write about, time to pick and choose...
Holidays
Dorothy Day was cool. Mom's was decent. One more at mom's and then it's over. I'm not a big holiday guy but it's been cool so far.
Job
New one! Yay! However, I really don't feel like finishing up 3M stuff that much. Time is running out! I kind of feel bad for Terry, but at the same time I don't give a rip. It is what it is. This time next week, I'll be at the refinery! VERY excite!
Sports
It was very nice to see Joe Webb do well. I especially liked his calmness and mechanics under pressure. Blitzers in his face, and he delivered repeatedly. T-Jack used to get jittery feet and always had inconsistent mechanics, despite immense talent. I'd like to see Joe get a chance to compete for a QB job next year, regardless of the coach. And, please, Mr. Wilf, don't bring in Gruden or Fischer! Keep Leslie or hire a coordinator off some other team. We don't need Fischer, he's a loser (6 playoff runs in 16 years, yet the media keeps calling him a "good coach," I don't get it) and Gruden will shuffle QBs in and out of here like musical chairs. We just can't have that.
Life
Things are going well with friends and family. Carolina and I are doing well also. Kind of annoying how people push us to "further" things... Why do that when things are going so well? Let's just let things take their course, shall we?
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Hope and faith
After a discussion with mom and Caro last week at Emily's, I've been doing a lot of thinking about faith, hope, and god.
"The Architect" in the second edition of "The Matrix" trilogy said something like this to Neo:
"Hope, the quintessential human emotion; simultaneously the source of your greatest strength, and your greatest weakness."
At the time, this struck a chord. Lately, I've been around religion and have drawn some parallel conclusions.
At my uncle's funeral, lots of praying took place. Before he died, there were cards in his room from fellow church goers asking exactly what ailments he had so they could pray to god for specific cures (note that because I'm atheist, I don't capitalize the word "god" unless it begins a sentence) to said ailments.
At Jimmy and Annie's wedding, the pastor lady was non-stop with prayers. She was non-stop the night before at the rehearsal. All sorts of praying took place. As I gazed into the crowd at the church, I noted that many people were taking the praying seriously, with hands folded and eyes shut, looking down in serious thought, using their minds to communicate with god. From my viewpoint, this is utter foolishness; that someone could believe with all their heart that a supernatural being with all power is listening, despite evidence clearly showing otherwise (prayers are not answered, but this post will not argue god's existence).
My belief is that this stems from hope. Humans are the only animal on earth that knows they will die someday, and that there is nothing they can do about it. Sure, we can diet and exercise, visit the doctor regularly, and take our vitamins in the hope that it will make us live longer and healthier lives; knowing all along that at the end of the day, we're hardly cheating death, we're merely hoping to delay it's occurrence (notice the word hope was used several times there).
It is my belief that humans are the only animal to agonize about the past and worry about the future. We hardly live in the moment. If you observe a dog, they clearly live in the moment and it helps them deal with bad days or even bad beginnings in life! A dog can be rescued as a violent and reactionary animal from horrible conditions, and become a "normal" dog in just a few months' time because they are unable to agonize about their past or worry about the future.
Humans, on the other hand, worry so much about the future that they try and convince themselves and other members of the human race to believe that there is a separate, spiritually based life that is not on Earth; in other words, that we're going to live forever, even after our bodies perish. This "hope" for eternal life is what drives us to pray, sacrifice, and even fight/kill others who don't agree, to take up religion! We're willing, as a species, to use precious time and resources to honor imaginary beings, and we've done it for our entire history. We convince ourselves, in the deepest chasms of our minds, that these imaginary beings exist so we can cheat death and live forever. Talk about false hope! I almost feel sorry for religious people who sacrificed so much in life with the promise of "going to heaven," only to find that when they die, it all goes black and it's all over. If more people would accept that, I suspect the world would be a much different, and much better, place. We'd live in the moment more and take life much more seriously; there would certainly be no suicide bombers! We'd respect life so much more that I suspect lots of wars wouldn't even be fought. People would be more honest, and stop using religion and false hope as a source of motivation to the masses to commit atrocities. As Voltaire said: "If we believe absurdities, we shall commit atrocities."
Since there is no way to convince 95% of the world's population that religion is an enormous waste of time, how about showing people the benefits of living in the moment from time to time? When you're doing something fun/enjoyable, savor the moment! Don't think about next week or last year, just enjoy living in the moment. Dogs and little kids do it all the time and seem to enjoy themselves while doing it. Also, it can help you shrug off disappointments or become over zealous over achievements.
I don't advocate never considering the past or contemplating your future. All I'm saying is, live in the moment from time to time. I bet you'll enjoy it, and "hope" you'll do it more and more often!
"The Architect" in the second edition of "The Matrix" trilogy said something like this to Neo:
"Hope, the quintessential human emotion; simultaneously the source of your greatest strength, and your greatest weakness."
At the time, this struck a chord. Lately, I've been around religion and have drawn some parallel conclusions.
At my uncle's funeral, lots of praying took place. Before he died, there were cards in his room from fellow church goers asking exactly what ailments he had so they could pray to god for specific cures (note that because I'm atheist, I don't capitalize the word "god" unless it begins a sentence) to said ailments.
At Jimmy and Annie's wedding, the pastor lady was non-stop with prayers. She was non-stop the night before at the rehearsal. All sorts of praying took place. As I gazed into the crowd at the church, I noted that many people were taking the praying seriously, with hands folded and eyes shut, looking down in serious thought, using their minds to communicate with god. From my viewpoint, this is utter foolishness; that someone could believe with all their heart that a supernatural being with all power is listening, despite evidence clearly showing otherwise (prayers are not answered, but this post will not argue god's existence).
My belief is that this stems from hope. Humans are the only animal on earth that knows they will die someday, and that there is nothing they can do about it. Sure, we can diet and exercise, visit the doctor regularly, and take our vitamins in the hope that it will make us live longer and healthier lives; knowing all along that at the end of the day, we're hardly cheating death, we're merely hoping to delay it's occurrence (notice the word hope was used several times there).
It is my belief that humans are the only animal to agonize about the past and worry about the future. We hardly live in the moment. If you observe a dog, they clearly live in the moment and it helps them deal with bad days or even bad beginnings in life! A dog can be rescued as a violent and reactionary animal from horrible conditions, and become a "normal" dog in just a few months' time because they are unable to agonize about their past or worry about the future.
Humans, on the other hand, worry so much about the future that they try and convince themselves and other members of the human race to believe that there is a separate, spiritually based life that is not on Earth; in other words, that we're going to live forever, even after our bodies perish. This "hope" for eternal life is what drives us to pray, sacrifice, and even fight/kill others who don't agree, to take up religion! We're willing, as a species, to use precious time and resources to honor imaginary beings, and we've done it for our entire history. We convince ourselves, in the deepest chasms of our minds, that these imaginary beings exist so we can cheat death and live forever. Talk about false hope! I almost feel sorry for religious people who sacrificed so much in life with the promise of "going to heaven," only to find that when they die, it all goes black and it's all over. If more people would accept that, I suspect the world would be a much different, and much better, place. We'd live in the moment more and take life much more seriously; there would certainly be no suicide bombers! We'd respect life so much more that I suspect lots of wars wouldn't even be fought. People would be more honest, and stop using religion and false hope as a source of motivation to the masses to commit atrocities. As Voltaire said: "If we believe absurdities, we shall commit atrocities."
Since there is no way to convince 95% of the world's population that religion is an enormous waste of time, how about showing people the benefits of living in the moment from time to time? When you're doing something fun/enjoyable, savor the moment! Don't think about next week or last year, just enjoy living in the moment. Dogs and little kids do it all the time and seem to enjoy themselves while doing it. Also, it can help you shrug off disappointments or become over zealous over achievements.
I don't advocate never considering the past or contemplating your future. All I'm saying is, live in the moment from time to time. I bet you'll enjoy it, and "hope" you'll do it more and more often!
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Into the great, multi colored yonder...
Big changes are all around us everyday, yet most folks don't seem to notice and/or care.
Lately, prices of many commodities have skyrocketed. "The Fed" pumped $600 million into the world economy last week, yet most people either haven't taken notice or haven't bothered to think it's important enough to comment on in conversation.
"The Fed" is really the world bank. The World Bank in Geneva is simply a loan shark to the third world. The Fed is what really controls the action. The G20 summit in Asia this week has our president and several others in his administration taking a beating from abroad for this influx of US dollars into the world economy, making exports from just about everywhere worth less, all the while making US exports worth MORE!
Look, I'm all for exporting to higher value. But does Fed Chairman Bernanke realize how his actions effect every day Americans at home? I know he does, but in from his big ass mansion, what does he care?
Gas went up, as did other petroleum related products.
Gold is insanely high right now. To all the people who sold their gold two years ago: neaner neaner neaner! Should have held it.
Next? Food prices will spike. Except for government subsidised corn derived products (like all meat, and most other stuff with corn based ingredients, like anything in a package haha). This will make the problems with the American food supply even worse, as more people will turn to horribly bad for you subsidized foods without even realizing they're buying government sponsored corn by the bushels into their homes. Why buy a head of romaine or a bag of baby carrots when you can get a double cheeseburger at McDonald's for the same price?
So, how do moves like these effect our future as average, everyday Americans? The truth is, no one really knows. Greenspan convinced us all that our houses were banks to borrow from, always safely increasing in value and a very secure investment, like long term mutual funds or related securities. We all know how that turned out.
Our current Fed chairmen has created a more cautious culture, and I'm happy for that, because this group of Americans, hardened by the BS of 2008 and 2009, are not going to just "play along" like they did for Greenspan.
Here's an example... Auto companies reported profits this quarter, and GM is even going to make an IPO! Guess what is going to happen if gas gets real high and food gets expensive? Americans will turn back to saving money, and the car companies will once again be in the hole. Their only hope is to be efficient manufacturing so they can turn a profit on smaller cars. I promise that instead of bitching about gas prices, Americans will either hold their current cars or purchase small ones. The SUVs that aren't fuel efficient (most of them) will just sit and rust away on a lot somewhere, and then sold at a huge discount later on to clear the lot for the next model year vehicles. Then, these fancy profits being made will plummet, and GM's brand new stock holders will sell out so fast the remaining holders will have lost all their money. (Psst: we all should have bought Ford stock in 2008. It's increased by magnitudes since hitting an all time low of around a dollar).
What about other changes in our world? Are people noticing?
If you should stumble upon this, tell me if you think people around you are noticing the same changes you are.
Lately, prices of many commodities have skyrocketed. "The Fed" pumped $600 million into the world economy last week, yet most people either haven't taken notice or haven't bothered to think it's important enough to comment on in conversation.
"The Fed" is really the world bank. The World Bank in Geneva is simply a loan shark to the third world. The Fed is what really controls the action. The G20 summit in Asia this week has our president and several others in his administration taking a beating from abroad for this influx of US dollars into the world economy, making exports from just about everywhere worth less, all the while making US exports worth MORE!
Look, I'm all for exporting to higher value. But does Fed Chairman Bernanke realize how his actions effect every day Americans at home? I know he does, but in from his big ass mansion, what does he care?
Gas went up, as did other petroleum related products.
Gold is insanely high right now. To all the people who sold their gold two years ago: neaner neaner neaner! Should have held it.
Next? Food prices will spike. Except for government subsidised corn derived products (like all meat, and most other stuff with corn based ingredients, like anything in a package haha). This will make the problems with the American food supply even worse, as more people will turn to horribly bad for you subsidized foods without even realizing they're buying government sponsored corn by the bushels into their homes. Why buy a head of romaine or a bag of baby carrots when you can get a double cheeseburger at McDonald's for the same price?
So, how do moves like these effect our future as average, everyday Americans? The truth is, no one really knows. Greenspan convinced us all that our houses were banks to borrow from, always safely increasing in value and a very secure investment, like long term mutual funds or related securities. We all know how that turned out.
Our current Fed chairmen has created a more cautious culture, and I'm happy for that, because this group of Americans, hardened by the BS of 2008 and 2009, are not going to just "play along" like they did for Greenspan.
Here's an example... Auto companies reported profits this quarter, and GM is even going to make an IPO! Guess what is going to happen if gas gets real high and food gets expensive? Americans will turn back to saving money, and the car companies will once again be in the hole. Their only hope is to be efficient manufacturing so they can turn a profit on smaller cars. I promise that instead of bitching about gas prices, Americans will either hold their current cars or purchase small ones. The SUVs that aren't fuel efficient (most of them) will just sit and rust away on a lot somewhere, and then sold at a huge discount later on to clear the lot for the next model year vehicles. Then, these fancy profits being made will plummet, and GM's brand new stock holders will sell out so fast the remaining holders will have lost all their money. (Psst: we all should have bought Ford stock in 2008. It's increased by magnitudes since hitting an all time low of around a dollar).
What about other changes in our world? Are people noticing?
If you should stumble upon this, tell me if you think people around you are noticing the same changes you are.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
The language of...
Last weekend, my buddy got married to his long time girlfriend. Their son was happy about it, in a few years he'll be real happy about it.
It was a fun time, to be sure, I'd voluntarily be in another wedding if given the chance.
Saw lots of cool people do cool things. Who would have guessed that Sean and Katie were such aces on the camera? I would have liked it if Matters showed up, but such is life.
What I'm wondering about are grudges and animosity.
What's up with them and why do they exist? The cliche "why can't we all just get along?" often pops into my head. Until, that is, I lengthened one or I guess, didn't hear the apologist out. Of course, I have no clue if she was actually an apologist.
What was her deal? Was she jealous that Caro and I appeared to have a really great time while her and Johnners were hardly seen during the festivities that followed the ceremony? Did that prompt her to approach me, with Uncle emmm-Scotty, no less?
I suppose I'll never really know. I see her once or twice a year, at best, and never found her a particularly interesting person to talk with. I remember the first time I met her, we rode in the car to Jimmy's cabin slugging down beers and joking around. Then, I said something forceful, which I'm one to do, and didn't apologize for it. Then, over the years, I had to endure countless smart-assed remarks and rude comments directed straight at me whilst she chuckled her fat rolls up and down. I sat there and took it, out of respect for Johnners. Then, after I made a personal pact to tell her off, she seemed skittish and didn't approach me the next half dozen times I was forced into her presence.
So, what should I do? I think I'll talk to her next time, sort of "finish what I started" and move forward.
Here's my dialogue:
"Jaque, since the first day I ever met you four years ago, you've been a total asshole to me for no apparent reason other than my sometimes forceful personality. I never understood why you held some effed up personal grudge against me, nor do I care. I sat and took it due to my respect for your significant other, who obviously loves the hell out of you. I'm not apologizing, as I see no reason to; I've done nothing wrong in my opinion. Rather, this is a peace offering, and only that. I don't really want to be your personal friend, but if we're in the same place, I promise not to be a cold, distant asshole to you and no one else. I will actually say hi to you and if I'm feeling squirlly, I may even ask how you're doing and engage in brief periods of small-talk type conversation. That's where it ends, though. I've taken too much guff from you over the years and believe I've seen your true colors (fuck, another cliche, I'm on a friggin role here!), and have concluded that we're either miles apart in personality or mere millimeters apart. Either of which make for a good friendship match. That being said, let's shake on it never to be assholes to each other again. Practice tolerance, and I shall do the same. Good day to you, Jaque."
There, that should do it.
It was a fun time, to be sure, I'd voluntarily be in another wedding if given the chance.
Saw lots of cool people do cool things. Who would have guessed that Sean and Katie were such aces on the camera? I would have liked it if Matters showed up, but such is life.
What I'm wondering about are grudges and animosity.
What's up with them and why do they exist? The cliche "why can't we all just get along?" often pops into my head. Until, that is, I lengthened one or I guess, didn't hear the apologist out. Of course, I have no clue if she was actually an apologist.
What was her deal? Was she jealous that Caro and I appeared to have a really great time while her and Johnners were hardly seen during the festivities that followed the ceremony? Did that prompt her to approach me, with Uncle emmm-Scotty, no less?
I suppose I'll never really know. I see her once or twice a year, at best, and never found her a particularly interesting person to talk with. I remember the first time I met her, we rode in the car to Jimmy's cabin slugging down beers and joking around. Then, I said something forceful, which I'm one to do, and didn't apologize for it. Then, over the years, I had to endure countless smart-assed remarks and rude comments directed straight at me whilst she chuckled her fat rolls up and down. I sat there and took it, out of respect for Johnners. Then, after I made a personal pact to tell her off, she seemed skittish and didn't approach me the next half dozen times I was forced into her presence.
So, what should I do? I think I'll talk to her next time, sort of "finish what I started" and move forward.
Here's my dialogue:
"Jaque, since the first day I ever met you four years ago, you've been a total asshole to me for no apparent reason other than my sometimes forceful personality. I never understood why you held some effed up personal grudge against me, nor do I care. I sat and took it due to my respect for your significant other, who obviously loves the hell out of you. I'm not apologizing, as I see no reason to; I've done nothing wrong in my opinion. Rather, this is a peace offering, and only that. I don't really want to be your personal friend, but if we're in the same place, I promise not to be a cold, distant asshole to you and no one else. I will actually say hi to you and if I'm feeling squirlly, I may even ask how you're doing and engage in brief periods of small-talk type conversation. That's where it ends, though. I've taken too much guff from you over the years and believe I've seen your true colors (fuck, another cliche, I'm on a friggin role here!), and have concluded that we're either miles apart in personality or mere millimeters apart. Either of which make for a good friendship match. That being said, let's shake on it never to be assholes to each other again. Practice tolerance, and I shall do the same. Good day to you, Jaque."
There, that should do it.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
X's and O's
Some interesting tidbits from discussions with people have triggered some thoughts on my part.
These discussions were centered around sports, hence the "X's and O's" title; has nothing to do with smooching...
As a "stat geek" I've generally rated things based on the numbers. "This team is good because they hit .280 collectively." Or, "this product performs well because it's always near the specification target."
What I'm discovering statistics to be missing, however, is the human factor in all this.
Like, just because "this product" performs well in a controlled environment does not always mean it will perform well in an uncontrolled one.
If a baseball team collectively hits .280, they do hit pretty well, but does that mean they're winners? The stat geek in me would want to seek out additional stats to try and predict this, but without actually watching them play, we don't know if they're going to be winners or not.
The point is, life doesn't always go to plan. Stats can't always predict outcomes. The human brain has sophistication the modern computer will never have, and vice versa. The problem is, we're really starting to ignore this brain of ours.
Can stats predict the cohesiveness of a baseball team? No.
Can stats predict locker room chemistry of a football team? Of course not! Look at the numbers T.O. put up over his career. The most important one, number of super bowl rings, is zero. I bet he'd trade all of those TD catches for just one piece of bling that says he won the big one.
Compared to a silicone microchip, our brain seems even more powerful. If you take a 2GHz dual core processor, you're essentially moving zeros and ones through the each circuit at a rate of one billion units per second. Circuits in the human brain can only move thousands of bits of data per second (however, the human brain probably doesn't work with binary code, this "code" is yet undetermined). Chincy, right? Wrong. There are billions of circuits in the brain that work like this in harmonious synchronization. That means that billions of connections are moving thousands of bits per second, all at the same time! A thousand billion is a trillion. Even the most powerful computer chips can't match that kind of power...
A brain can recognize a face by the time you snap your fingers. A computer? It may not be able to do it at all, and if it can, it's only an estimate based on imaging techniques that are very complicated programs to write and maintain.
A computer can "do math" much faster than a human can. But, humans have to teach it how. Additionally, computers can't recognize a screwy result very fast, but a human can!
So, my message today is to never forget your natural intuition and don't ignore your instincts. They served our ancestors well, whom we are all descended from, that lived in a very difficult and harsh environment that you or I can only imagine.
Computers are a tool, nothing more. The human element is more important. Don't forget to realize your potential and don't put too much stock in computer generated statistics and other tools.
This has been a random rumbling from a grumbling fool.
These discussions were centered around sports, hence the "X's and O's" title; has nothing to do with smooching...
As a "stat geek" I've generally rated things based on the numbers. "This team is good because they hit .280 collectively." Or, "this product performs well because it's always near the specification target."
What I'm discovering statistics to be missing, however, is the human factor in all this.
Like, just because "this product" performs well in a controlled environment does not always mean it will perform well in an uncontrolled one.
If a baseball team collectively hits .280, they do hit pretty well, but does that mean they're winners? The stat geek in me would want to seek out additional stats to try and predict this, but without actually watching them play, we don't know if they're going to be winners or not.
The point is, life doesn't always go to plan. Stats can't always predict outcomes. The human brain has sophistication the modern computer will never have, and vice versa. The problem is, we're really starting to ignore this brain of ours.
Can stats predict the cohesiveness of a baseball team? No.
Can stats predict locker room chemistry of a football team? Of course not! Look at the numbers T.O. put up over his career. The most important one, number of super bowl rings, is zero. I bet he'd trade all of those TD catches for just one piece of bling that says he won the big one.
Compared to a silicone microchip, our brain seems even more powerful. If you take a 2GHz dual core processor, you're essentially moving zeros and ones through the each circuit at a rate of one billion units per second. Circuits in the human brain can only move thousands of bits of data per second (however, the human brain probably doesn't work with binary code, this "code" is yet undetermined). Chincy, right? Wrong. There are billions of circuits in the brain that work like this in harmonious synchronization. That means that billions of connections are moving thousands of bits per second, all at the same time! A thousand billion is a trillion. Even the most powerful computer chips can't match that kind of power...
A brain can recognize a face by the time you snap your fingers. A computer? It may not be able to do it at all, and if it can, it's only an estimate based on imaging techniques that are very complicated programs to write and maintain.
A computer can "do math" much faster than a human can. But, humans have to teach it how. Additionally, computers can't recognize a screwy result very fast, but a human can!
So, my message today is to never forget your natural intuition and don't ignore your instincts. They served our ancestors well, whom we are all descended from, that lived in a very difficult and harsh environment that you or I can only imagine.
Computers are a tool, nothing more. The human element is more important. Don't forget to realize your potential and don't put too much stock in computer generated statistics and other tools.
This has been a random rumbling from a grumbling fool.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Anxiety and the game of life.
My mom says she hates change. My dad slowly has embraced it the past 5 years or so. Ha, another proof that environment is stronger than genetics in personalities and attitudes.
Is the reason I'm looking for a new job after just 3+ years because I crave change so much?
Think about it:
Anxiety.
I want out of my job badly. Sooooo boring, I'm nothing but a paper pusher and I really have no desire to "try hard" and "move up" from this job. So many folks here are content with pushing paper and just moving up the T-scale while having essentially the same job - I don't get it. I was good at helping the international locations. I was good at mentoring the young quality engineers. Yet, they yank me from it and don't even offer the chance to interview. Pretty bush league. I don't really want to leave 3M, but I feel like I'm being pushed out the door. I like my boss a TON, but I'll admit that when I leave, there will be some satisfaction in telling him that I'm leaving. Gladly, I'll hand over my laptop, sign the paper work that I pledge never to share 3M secrets, roll my benefits over to the next company, and get going on a new stage in life!
Family.
Gotta go see mom. Haven't talked to her in awhile. The ranting really took the luster off the prospects of seeing this medal my gramps brought back from the Marines. Question is, how do I communicate to her that I don't care about all the family squabbling and conspiracy theories on why/who/what took place between Jerome and Joanne? Is there a way to do this without hurting feelings? Methinks not.
I like Rachel, and of course the new Andy is probably an improvement as he seems more grounded and settled. Not sure about this "you should be here" nonsense, though. If they really gave two shits, I'd hear about stuff that people have planned. Like my "birthday dinner" that was scheduled around their free time, not mine. It was my birthday! Another thing I have to talk with Mom about. Things on the dad front are cool as usual, though, and big-T can do no wrong!
Friends.
What the fuck's up with this bachelor party? Should I call Johnners or just say "fuck it" and let him do the legwork? Since he excludes me due to that wife of his, I owe him no help in planning this thing. Let him, er, uh, her do the planning and he can relay it to the rest of us. It had better not be the night of the 15th, though, or Carolina will be pissed! And rightfully so, I have her mother all nervous about making dinner for us that night and I can't cancel. Worst case scenario, I'll meet up with them after the dinner ends. Gotta go get fitted this week, though, maybe later today!
Life's game.
So, how to play this one, eh? So many things going on at once in people's lives. I'll admit that mis-communication is a constant and getting worse with a key person. How do I break that down and figure this out? Gawd, here I am, blogging while at work. I have plenty to do, and could have more but I have no initiative. Need. New. Job. Now!!!!!
That's it and that's all, folks!
Is the reason I'm looking for a new job after just 3+ years because I crave change so much?
Think about it:
- I've owned, let's see (I have to count them up) eight cars now. A couple of them were perfectly fine but I sold them off and got into something else, anyway. I'm also always looking at what's out there for sale.
- I have not eaten at the same place or even been to the same place or done the same thing with my gf since we met.
- I routinely get rid of my phones before the "new in two" plan takes over.
- Generally, I read part of a book or chapter before switching to work on another one, then I come back to it later.
- I get bored so easily at some things (like my current job) but stay engaged in others just as easily. What the hell?
Anxiety.
I want out of my job badly. Sooooo boring, I'm nothing but a paper pusher and I really have no desire to "try hard" and "move up" from this job. So many folks here are content with pushing paper and just moving up the T-scale while having essentially the same job - I don't get it. I was good at helping the international locations. I was good at mentoring the young quality engineers. Yet, they yank me from it and don't even offer the chance to interview. Pretty bush league. I don't really want to leave 3M, but I feel like I'm being pushed out the door. I like my boss a TON, but I'll admit that when I leave, there will be some satisfaction in telling him that I'm leaving. Gladly, I'll hand over my laptop, sign the paper work that I pledge never to share 3M secrets, roll my benefits over to the next company, and get going on a new stage in life!
Family.
Gotta go see mom. Haven't talked to her in awhile. The ranting really took the luster off the prospects of seeing this medal my gramps brought back from the Marines. Question is, how do I communicate to her that I don't care about all the family squabbling and conspiracy theories on why/who/what took place between Jerome and Joanne? Is there a way to do this without hurting feelings? Methinks not.
I like Rachel, and of course the new Andy is probably an improvement as he seems more grounded and settled. Not sure about this "you should be here" nonsense, though. If they really gave two shits, I'd hear about stuff that people have planned. Like my "birthday dinner" that was scheduled around their free time, not mine. It was my birthday! Another thing I have to talk with Mom about. Things on the dad front are cool as usual, though, and big-T can do no wrong!
Friends.
What the fuck's up with this bachelor party? Should I call Johnners or just say "fuck it" and let him do the legwork? Since he excludes me due to that wife of his, I owe him no help in planning this thing. Let him, er, uh, her do the planning and he can relay it to the rest of us. It had better not be the night of the 15th, though, or Carolina will be pissed! And rightfully so, I have her mother all nervous about making dinner for us that night and I can't cancel. Worst case scenario, I'll meet up with them after the dinner ends. Gotta go get fitted this week, though, maybe later today!
Life's game.
So, how to play this one, eh? So many things going on at once in people's lives. I'll admit that mis-communication is a constant and getting worse with a key person. How do I break that down and figure this out? Gawd, here I am, blogging while at work. I have plenty to do, and could have more but I have no initiative. Need. New. Job. Now!!!!!
That's it and that's all, folks!
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Halibut vegetable chowder
Try this tasty and healthy soup. It's savory and delicious, plus it's quite flexible, you can add what you want and not dramatically change the flavor.
You will need:
Vegetables: All you really need to follow here is the onion and garlic. Add/subtract any vegetable you want, but don't add too much volume, as a 28oz can of tomatoes and 1c of liquid is all this calls for. If you want more, double up the recipe. Root and calciferous vegetables work best.
1/2c of chopped onion
Carrot (1 or 2) julienne cut
Celery stalks (1 or 2) diagonally cut
2-3 small potatoes (red) or 1 potato (russet) or 5-6 "B" red potatoes
Cauliflower and/or broccoli, stalks removed.
Corn/peas if desired, drained
1 clove garlic
Broth: Nothing fancy here...
28 oz can of tomatoes, crushed
1c water or wine. If using wine, pick a red that isn't "bold" like Pinot Noir
1 tbsp chicken bullion granules
1/4 tsp each of dried crushed thyme and basil (again, flexible, just don't overdo any particular herb)
3 tbsp parsley, minced and divided
1/4 tsp each salt and pepper
Meat:
1.5 lbs Alaskan Halibut, cut into 1" cubes
In a large saucepan (or stock pot if doubling up), saute vegetables in 2 tbsp oil (olive, canola, vegetable, etc.) and a little butter for flavor, if desired, for about 5 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure all veggies are coated with the oil and butter.
Add tomatoes, water/wine, bullion, herbs/salt/pepper, and 2 tbsp of the parsley. Stir well and simmer for about 20 minutes (if you're using potatoes, simmer until they're almost fully cooked), stirring occasionally.
Add halibut and simmer for another 5 or 10 minutes, or until halibut is cooked. It should flake easily with a fork when it's done and have the very bright white color that is characteristic of this fish.
Use remaining parsley as a garnish and serve hot. It's very good with crusty bread to mop up what's left of the very savory (especially if wine is used) broth. Should fill about 6 soup bowls.
It can be served with wine, a mild, drier red variety, but I prefer beer with this one. Something about hot soup and cold beer (or heck, a glass of milk is good, too!). Choose a dark one that's not heavy or sweet. Guinness draught or Lienie's Creamy Dark are both good choices. If dark, dry beer isn't your thing, try any variety you like in the winter, such as a pub ale (like Bass) or IPA. If you're one of those who won't drink anything but domestic lager, stick to wine :)
You will need:
Vegetables: All you really need to follow here is the onion and garlic. Add/subtract any vegetable you want, but don't add too much volume, as a 28oz can of tomatoes and 1c of liquid is all this calls for. If you want more, double up the recipe. Root and calciferous vegetables work best.
1/2c of chopped onion
Carrot (1 or 2) julienne cut
Celery stalks (1 or 2) diagonally cut
2-3 small potatoes (red) or 1 potato (russet) or 5-6 "B" red potatoes
Cauliflower and/or broccoli, stalks removed.
Corn/peas if desired, drained
1 clove garlic
Broth: Nothing fancy here...
28 oz can of tomatoes, crushed
1c water or wine. If using wine, pick a red that isn't "bold" like Pinot Noir
1 tbsp chicken bullion granules
1/4 tsp each of dried crushed thyme and basil (again, flexible, just don't overdo any particular herb)
3 tbsp parsley, minced and divided
1/4 tsp each salt and pepper
Meat:
1.5 lbs Alaskan Halibut, cut into 1" cubes
In a large saucepan (or stock pot if doubling up), saute vegetables in 2 tbsp oil (olive, canola, vegetable, etc.) and a little butter for flavor, if desired, for about 5 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure all veggies are coated with the oil and butter.
Add tomatoes, water/wine, bullion, herbs/salt/pepper, and 2 tbsp of the parsley. Stir well and simmer for about 20 minutes (if you're using potatoes, simmer until they're almost fully cooked), stirring occasionally.
Add halibut and simmer for another 5 or 10 minutes, or until halibut is cooked. It should flake easily with a fork when it's done and have the very bright white color that is characteristic of this fish.
Use remaining parsley as a garnish and serve hot. It's very good with crusty bread to mop up what's left of the very savory (especially if wine is used) broth. Should fill about 6 soup bowls.
It can be served with wine, a mild, drier red variety, but I prefer beer with this one. Something about hot soup and cold beer (or heck, a glass of milk is good, too!). Choose a dark one that's not heavy or sweet. Guinness draught or Lienie's Creamy Dark are both good choices. If dark, dry beer isn't your thing, try any variety you like in the winter, such as a pub ale (like Bass) or IPA. If you're one of those who won't drink anything but domestic lager, stick to wine :)
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Alaska Trips, Job Searches, Other Tidbits...
I'm back, and I didn't see any bears from the inside; saw plenty from the outside! How thrilling!
Wrestling halibut was FUN! Trying to snag dilapidated salmon was fun, too, but not as much fun as wrestling halibut. All in all, a great time was had by everyone, but at a substantial cost. Can't go every year, but Kodiak Island hasn't seen the last of me, not by a long shot! The salmon counts as the Buskin weir the day we left was about all I needed to know I'll be back. Too bad we weren't there for the fresh, biting silvers.
The job search is going somewhat decent. I actually managed to wrangle an interview for a job that's probably beyond my qualifications. However, it would be a great challenge and change of pace. Time to dust off my interview skills and get my suit dry cleaned! In other news, I submitted an application to General Mills. Too bad I can't seem to find another 3M position I'm interested in, but such is life. And, living in a big town like this that is still mostly economically sound has it's benefits; there are lots of opportunities out there.
Since I've been stuffing halibut down my face with considerable frequency, here's a couple quick recipes that taste fantastic, courtesy of my mind:
Coconut battered halibut tidbits:
Cut small cubes, about 1", and dry on paper towels.
Pour oil (canola, vegetable, peanut, etc.) in to a cast iron skillet, up to about a half inch from the bottom. Heat on stove, using a popcorn kernel to determine when it's ready. When the kernel pops, the oil is hot enough. Test with flour sprinkle; it should turn brown, not black. If it turns black, turn the heat down; medium heat should work well. If the oil smokes, it's too hot!
Set up three shallow bowls; one with cornstarch, one with an egg and a splash of milk (or multiple, one egg should coat about a half pound of fish). Let the egg rest to room temperature, it will coat the fish much better than if it's cold. And finally, one with a mixture of sweetened baker's coconut shavings and flour, seasoned if desired (try Cheyenne pepper, garlic powder, and sea salt).
Roll pieces in cornstarch, coating thoroughly.
Coat those pieces in egg and roll in flour/coconut mixture until fully coated.
Place coated pieces in skillet, cook about a minute on each side or until brown and crispy.
Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels.
Serve with marmalade or dip of your choice. They also taste good without dip, just salt.
Halibut lacks the "fishy" taste and no lemon juice or vinegar is needed!
Pan seared halibut with shallot cream sauce:
Halibut:
Preheat oven to 450F.
Heat canola oil to a "shimmer" or until it begins to smoke, in a cast iron skillet.
Prepare fillets, about 1/2 to 3/4 of a pound each, of roughly equal thickness throughout, about 1" if possible.
Dry thoroughly and coat with a light coating of seasoned flour.
Place fillets in the hot oil, sear for about one minute on each side.
Drain excess oil from skillet and place in the oven for 7-8 minutes or until done. Halibut will remain juicy and should easily flake with a fork when it's cooked properly. Searing well helps hold in moisture, so be sure the fish is well seared on both sides before putting in the oven.
Remove skillet from oven and remove fish from skillet right away and serve hot!
Cream sauce:
Melt about 2-3 tbs. of butter over medium/medium-low heat in a small saucepan and add one small shallot, finely chopped. Add fresh or dry dill weed to taste, about a 1/2 tsp to start; more can be added later and since dill is strong, don't overdo it!
Cook in butter until shallot pieces become translucent, about 3 minutes.
Add some flour and whisk well until most butter is absorbed and cook flour until brown to make a roux. This should take only a couple minutes.
De-glaze the roux with white wine, about 1/4 cup or so.
Add a little heavy whipping cream (about 1/4 cup) at this time and mind the heat; don't let the mixture boil! Continue whisking!
Add about 1/4 cup of milk until the mixture is thin, or to desired volume.
Continue to whisk, keeping the mixture from boiling, until it reduces to half the original volume, or to desired thickness.
During the reduction process, you can add more dill, or any seasoning you want. A pinch of parmesan and/or fresh ground black pepper adds nice flavor.
Pour cream sauce over fish and serve the dish hot hot hot!
This should be enough cream sauce to serve with two fillets. Increase amounts of butter/cream/wine as needed.
Side dish ideas:
A fresh garden salad with vinaigrette works well with the fish and cream sauce.
Steamed vegetables.
Mashed potatoes, however desired (traditional, cheesy, with herbs, etc.).
Steamed fresh green beans or asparagus spears with a little butter.
Crusty bread to mop up excess cream sauce.
A dry white wine works best, served chilled of course.
Wrestling halibut was FUN! Trying to snag dilapidated salmon was fun, too, but not as much fun as wrestling halibut. All in all, a great time was had by everyone, but at a substantial cost. Can't go every year, but Kodiak Island hasn't seen the last of me, not by a long shot! The salmon counts as the Buskin weir the day we left was about all I needed to know I'll be back. Too bad we weren't there for the fresh, biting silvers.
The job search is going somewhat decent. I actually managed to wrangle an interview for a job that's probably beyond my qualifications. However, it would be a great challenge and change of pace. Time to dust off my interview skills and get my suit dry cleaned! In other news, I submitted an application to General Mills. Too bad I can't seem to find another 3M position I'm interested in, but such is life. And, living in a big town like this that is still mostly economically sound has it's benefits; there are lots of opportunities out there.
Since I've been stuffing halibut down my face with considerable frequency, here's a couple quick recipes that taste fantastic, courtesy of my mind:
Coconut battered halibut tidbits:
Cut small cubes, about 1", and dry on paper towels.
Pour oil (canola, vegetable, peanut, etc.) in to a cast iron skillet, up to about a half inch from the bottom. Heat on stove, using a popcorn kernel to determine when it's ready. When the kernel pops, the oil is hot enough. Test with flour sprinkle; it should turn brown, not black. If it turns black, turn the heat down; medium heat should work well. If the oil smokes, it's too hot!
Set up three shallow bowls; one with cornstarch, one with an egg and a splash of milk (or multiple, one egg should coat about a half pound of fish). Let the egg rest to room temperature, it will coat the fish much better than if it's cold. And finally, one with a mixture of sweetened baker's coconut shavings and flour, seasoned if desired (try Cheyenne pepper, garlic powder, and sea salt).
Roll pieces in cornstarch, coating thoroughly.
Coat those pieces in egg and roll in flour/coconut mixture until fully coated.
Place coated pieces in skillet, cook about a minute on each side or until brown and crispy.
Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels.
Serve with marmalade or dip of your choice. They also taste good without dip, just salt.
Halibut lacks the "fishy" taste and no lemon juice or vinegar is needed!
Pan seared halibut with shallot cream sauce:
Halibut:
Preheat oven to 450F.
Heat canola oil to a "shimmer" or until it begins to smoke, in a cast iron skillet.
Prepare fillets, about 1/2 to 3/4 of a pound each, of roughly equal thickness throughout, about 1" if possible.
Dry thoroughly and coat with a light coating of seasoned flour.
Place fillets in the hot oil, sear for about one minute on each side.
Drain excess oil from skillet and place in the oven for 7-8 minutes or until done. Halibut will remain juicy and should easily flake with a fork when it's cooked properly. Searing well helps hold in moisture, so be sure the fish is well seared on both sides before putting in the oven.
Remove skillet from oven and remove fish from skillet right away and serve hot!
Cream sauce:
Melt about 2-3 tbs. of butter over medium/medium-low heat in a small saucepan and add one small shallot, finely chopped. Add fresh or dry dill weed to taste, about a 1/2 tsp to start; more can be added later and since dill is strong, don't overdo it!
Cook in butter until shallot pieces become translucent, about 3 minutes.
Add some flour and whisk well until most butter is absorbed and cook flour until brown to make a roux. This should take only a couple minutes.
De-glaze the roux with white wine, about 1/4 cup or so.
Add a little heavy whipping cream (about 1/4 cup) at this time and mind the heat; don't let the mixture boil! Continue whisking!
Add about 1/4 cup of milk until the mixture is thin, or to desired volume.
Continue to whisk, keeping the mixture from boiling, until it reduces to half the original volume, or to desired thickness.
During the reduction process, you can add more dill, or any seasoning you want. A pinch of parmesan and/or fresh ground black pepper adds nice flavor.
Pour cream sauce over fish and serve the dish hot hot hot!
This should be enough cream sauce to serve with two fillets. Increase amounts of butter/cream/wine as needed.
Side dish ideas:
A fresh garden salad with vinaigrette works well with the fish and cream sauce.
Steamed vegetables.
Mashed potatoes, however desired (traditional, cheesy, with herbs, etc.).
Steamed fresh green beans or asparagus spears with a little butter.
Crusty bread to mop up excess cream sauce.
A dry white wine works best, served chilled of course.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Hi Ho! Alaska!
Here in the life and times, we (I, actually) like to keep things positive.
Well, it can't get any more positive than a trip to Alaska. And, in case any creepers found their way here, I have someone staying at my place. Said someone has huge biceps and is a surgeon with a 12 gauge, and has total command over my 80 lb dog. In case you find yourself with tooth and buck-shot holes in your body while slowly bleeding out, you can't say you weren't warned.
The order of the trip will be Kodiak Island salmon and open water fishing. My fly fishing skills are lacking, however, so I can only hope I actually catch something. I'm going to challenge myself, and not "suck the teet" of conventional spinning and casting tackle like I'm used to. Instead, I'm going to keep throwing flys out there until I succeed.
That's all, folks! Gotta get caught up at work and in the personal life before I split so y'all enjoy your time, I know I'll enjoy mine!!!!
Well, it can't get any more positive than a trip to Alaska. And, in case any creepers found their way here, I have someone staying at my place. Said someone has huge biceps and is a surgeon with a 12 gauge, and has total command over my 80 lb dog. In case you find yourself with tooth and buck-shot holes in your body while slowly bleeding out, you can't say you weren't warned.
The order of the trip will be Kodiak Island salmon and open water fishing. My fly fishing skills are lacking, however, so I can only hope I actually catch something. I'm going to challenge myself, and not "suck the teet" of conventional spinning and casting tackle like I'm used to. Instead, I'm going to keep throwing flys out there until I succeed.
That's all, folks! Gotta get caught up at work and in the personal life before I split so y'all enjoy your time, I know I'll enjoy mine!!!!
Friday, September 10, 2010
In Uncle John's passing...
So, the services were a couple days ago, and I've had a little time to reflect.
Mom pointed out how sorry she feels for Judy, and that people forgot that John was "no angel" while they were married. In addition, Judy felt bad seeing John so happy in all those photos without her in his life to any significant extent. Also heard she will or may lose a significant portion of her income from his pension from the county and military. To which I say...
Bummer. But, is there really any excuse for her to complain about money? She owns the house outright, got half of a solid income for several years, and by accounts is a pretty frugal liver of life. There is no excuse for financial troubles, if she has any. She needn't be concerned about leaving money to her kids, John took very good care of that. Does she have a right to be upset? I suppose, but if she's going to start running him down, I'll not be interested in talking with her as time goes on.
Karen is a good person. Do I want to spend time with her in the future? Well... people like her normally aren't my cup of tea, too religious. But a bike ride and a chat here and there should be okay. No problems with that, not a single one.
And, the old man. How's he going to fair going forward with this? Not sure. I've made extra efforts to talk with him and be as involved with him as I can. Tuck helps in this regard sooooo much. Where would we be without that mangy mutt?
Now to John's thank you note, from me:
Thanks for being a willing conversationalist with an overly inquisitive teenager who had all the answers, or so he thought. Thanks for teaching me how to ski. Thanks for being non-judgemental all the years I knew you. Thanks for having me down to Prescott and actually paying me for doing stuff I would have gladly done for free. Thanks for arranging all the free lift tickets to Lutsen and Afton Alps all those years. Thanks for giving sage advice to a 20-something kid trying to find his way in the world. Thanks for giving me a very memorable last word "Matt, listen up. You take your girlfriend somewhere nice real soon here, don't be a cheapskate." Love it. Being called a cheapskate by a Rowe is an honor; I must live one hell of a frugal life for that to be possible! Wow. Classic Uncle John, still makes me laugh. Great way to end things with someone!
In other news, what a sloppy football game last night. Both teams were dropping passes, making mental mistakes, just sloppy football and our team came out the worse for wear. Boy, the Vikes sure look rusty on offense. On defense, they were quite solid, though, and EJ looked really good! So happy for him to come back from that horrific injury.
The Twinkies continue to hang tough, despite unlikely contributors. Due to that, I think we're due for another early playoff exit. I get this feeling that very soon, Gardy won't be given slack like that. New ballpark, medium sized market, sold out games all year... Yup, hot seat for Gardy if they don't at least look competitive in a playoff series!
Rest in peace, Uncle John. I'll have your skis on the hill in no time!
Mom pointed out how sorry she feels for Judy, and that people forgot that John was "no angel" while they were married. In addition, Judy felt bad seeing John so happy in all those photos without her in his life to any significant extent. Also heard she will or may lose a significant portion of her income from his pension from the county and military. To which I say...
Bummer. But, is there really any excuse for her to complain about money? She owns the house outright, got half of a solid income for several years, and by accounts is a pretty frugal liver of life. There is no excuse for financial troubles, if she has any. She needn't be concerned about leaving money to her kids, John took very good care of that. Does she have a right to be upset? I suppose, but if she's going to start running him down, I'll not be interested in talking with her as time goes on.
Karen is a good person. Do I want to spend time with her in the future? Well... people like her normally aren't my cup of tea, too religious. But a bike ride and a chat here and there should be okay. No problems with that, not a single one.
And, the old man. How's he going to fair going forward with this? Not sure. I've made extra efforts to talk with him and be as involved with him as I can. Tuck helps in this regard sooooo much. Where would we be without that mangy mutt?
Now to John's thank you note, from me:
Thanks for being a willing conversationalist with an overly inquisitive teenager who had all the answers, or so he thought. Thanks for teaching me how to ski. Thanks for being non-judgemental all the years I knew you. Thanks for having me down to Prescott and actually paying me for doing stuff I would have gladly done for free. Thanks for arranging all the free lift tickets to Lutsen and Afton Alps all those years. Thanks for giving sage advice to a 20-something kid trying to find his way in the world. Thanks for giving me a very memorable last word "Matt, listen up. You take your girlfriend somewhere nice real soon here, don't be a cheapskate." Love it. Being called a cheapskate by a Rowe is an honor; I must live one hell of a frugal life for that to be possible! Wow. Classic Uncle John, still makes me laugh. Great way to end things with someone!
In other news, what a sloppy football game last night. Both teams were dropping passes, making mental mistakes, just sloppy football and our team came out the worse for wear. Boy, the Vikes sure look rusty on offense. On defense, they were quite solid, though, and EJ looked really good! So happy for him to come back from that horrific injury.
The Twinkies continue to hang tough, despite unlikely contributors. Due to that, I think we're due for another early playoff exit. I get this feeling that very soon, Gardy won't be given slack like that. New ballpark, medium sized market, sold out games all year... Yup, hot seat for Gardy if they don't at least look competitive in a playoff series!
Rest in peace, Uncle John. I'll have your skis on the hill in no time!
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Reflections
Some strange happenings lately.
An ex-girlfriend was discovered to have a baby. Good for her, better for me, because it's mathematically impossible by about 3-4 months to have been mine! Bullet. Dodged.
Just got back from Chicago with Carolina. Had a really good time! We got along really well, I thought, and explored a bunch of the city a typical tourist most likely does not. I think I could travel with her for longer times and distances in the future. I hope she feels the same. Of course, I don't just "hope" things, I plan to talk about the trip from her perspective next time we see each other.
Uncle John, as of this writing is still alive. Well, "alive" as defined by biological standards. In reality, he's been dead awhile, as I know he would never consider the state he's in "living." My only hope is that he makes it long enough in a lucid enough state to know that people have been around him, talking to him. Especially his kids. Margo's mental/spiritual state worries me a bit. Funny, the "godly" people in our midst are struggling the most, while the so called "heathens" like me and dad take it in full stride and have fully grasped reality already. At any rate, he'll be greatly missed. My plan is to tell funny and other amusing stories about my experiences with him. As I said to mom last night, I'd rather people laugh about me when I die rather than cry over me. I intend to celebrate his life, not mourn his death.
Andy stated he went to church recently. I better keep my non-belief to myself when around Rachel and him. I suppose she talked him into it, but he's a sheep and she's the shepherd so I expect him to go along with it 100%. Good for him though, he's got a good thing going. Hopefully, he won't fuck it up.
In other news, I hate the way people drive around here. It amazes me how little attention people pay to their surroundings. Today, I was at least 50 feet short of the intersection while running with Tuck. The person opposite me in direction approached the stop sign very very slow, as if waiting for me to get there first? Anyway, they still beat me by at least 5 seconds and had not moved yet! When I signaled for them to make the left turn, I got a dirty look! Really? They were there first, they should have gone first! Amazing how dumb some people are. Then, on the way to work, I had a nice distance between the car in front of me and my front bumper. No stop and go conditions, traffic and most lanes were wide open. But, some a-hole cut in front of me anyway, no turn signal used. So annoying. I don't get why people are like that, pisses me off. Then you've got the cell phone idiot leaving turn signals on miles after making any kind of turn or lane change. It's a miracle more of us don't die on the road. I swear, it must easily be the most hazardous part of my day!
That's all for now. Have a good one, y'all!
On a side note, I'm a great speller! I ran the check before I typed this line, only one word was flagged. Go me!
An ex-girlfriend was discovered to have a baby. Good for her, better for me, because it's mathematically impossible by about 3-4 months to have been mine! Bullet. Dodged.
Just got back from Chicago with Carolina. Had a really good time! We got along really well, I thought, and explored a bunch of the city a typical tourist most likely does not. I think I could travel with her for longer times and distances in the future. I hope she feels the same. Of course, I don't just "hope" things, I plan to talk about the trip from her perspective next time we see each other.
Uncle John, as of this writing is still alive. Well, "alive" as defined by biological standards. In reality, he's been dead awhile, as I know he would never consider the state he's in "living." My only hope is that he makes it long enough in a lucid enough state to know that people have been around him, talking to him. Especially his kids. Margo's mental/spiritual state worries me a bit. Funny, the "godly" people in our midst are struggling the most, while the so called "heathens" like me and dad take it in full stride and have fully grasped reality already. At any rate, he'll be greatly missed. My plan is to tell funny and other amusing stories about my experiences with him. As I said to mom last night, I'd rather people laugh about me when I die rather than cry over me. I intend to celebrate his life, not mourn his death.
Andy stated he went to church recently. I better keep my non-belief to myself when around Rachel and him. I suppose she talked him into it, but he's a sheep and she's the shepherd so I expect him to go along with it 100%. Good for him though, he's got a good thing going. Hopefully, he won't fuck it up.
In other news, I hate the way people drive around here. It amazes me how little attention people pay to their surroundings. Today, I was at least 50 feet short of the intersection while running with Tuck. The person opposite me in direction approached the stop sign very very slow, as if waiting for me to get there first? Anyway, they still beat me by at least 5 seconds and had not moved yet! When I signaled for them to make the left turn, I got a dirty look! Really? They were there first, they should have gone first! Amazing how dumb some people are. Then, on the way to work, I had a nice distance between the car in front of me and my front bumper. No stop and go conditions, traffic and most lanes were wide open. But, some a-hole cut in front of me anyway, no turn signal used. So annoying. I don't get why people are like that, pisses me off. Then you've got the cell phone idiot leaving turn signals on miles after making any kind of turn or lane change. It's a miracle more of us don't die on the road. I swear, it must easily be the most hazardous part of my day!
That's all for now. Have a good one, y'all!
On a side note, I'm a great speller! I ran the check before I typed this line, only one word was flagged. Go me!
Monday, August 23, 2010
Directions
So, like most random Internet bloggers, this one won't really be read by many, if any. Still, I have thought a bit about the direction this blog should take.
Food for my own thought:
- A blog about "my life" would be fairly mundane. Sure, my life has interesting points, but overall it's probably ordinary in lots of ways.
- A blog about a typical topic in which the general public may have some knowledge is kind of pointless, no? Like, Nick already blogs Twins, I read tons of blogs about fishing... get the point?
- Personal opinions are a dime a dozen... "Opinions and assholes, every one's got 'em." Still, some opinions are going to find their way into here, it's human nature! Mine are strong, so beware, tender readers (imaginary readers, I mean)!!!
This blog will be a random one about random topics.
For today's edition:
Since my current relationship and the one that ended last were both found from online sources, here's a little advice about online dating for guys. Do's and don'ts, if you will. A few background points:
- Men outnumber women around 3 to 1 on most sites, and certainly to some extent on every site.
- Just like in real life, women will hardly ever be the aggressor, or one to initiate "conversation."
- Websites are meant/designed to arrange a meet in real life. Not naked web cam sessions. This advice blog doesn't cover that sort of website...
With that...
Do's:
- Use your spell check. Even better, copy any messages you send to a woman into word or other software that checks grammar too and re-paste later... "But what if I don't have/can't afford Word?" Download Open Office (www.openoffice.org). It's free and it works really well. This counts, guys. You look like a moron if you send a message with mis-spelled words and an overall butchery of grammar. Chicks dig smart dudes for a number of reasons. Even if you're not smart, spelling and grammar done correctly makes it look like you at least might be above a 6th grade reading level. This puts you ahead of at least 90% of your competition in the online dating world.
- Be original. Swallow your pride and browse the profiles of other men/little boys (which ever applies) to gauge your competition. You'll quickly discover a bunch of things that "every" guy has. Avoid those. You'll also run across clever, original, and witty ones (few and far between). If you actually want to meet a quality girl on there and you aren't a 10/10 in the looks department, originality and wit go a long way. Take the time to do that and it will be worth it.
- Be patient. You're not having sex one week after singing up and putting a picture in some profile up somewhere. It may take awhile to meet someone who is a quality person. Don't give up, and don't shut out the real world for dating prospects, either. It took me almost a year and a half and nearly a dozen dates ranging from crappy to decent before I met my current girlfriend. I was patient, picky, "in" the real world, and had no problem being single until I could find "her" who would make me happy.
- Be assertive. Women like assertive men who take the lead, even the hard core feminists to some degree... As a generation of men raised by women, we're pussies and afraid to tell "her" what's up sometimes in fear of womanly wrath. As long as you don't come off as a cocky asshole, go ahead and express an opinion and show a back bone. It might even shock some women who are used to hanging out with doormat guys. Also, plan the first few dates, should you actually coax her into meeting with you. It shows initiative. Have a plan, run it by her (or, when you get to know her a bit better, surprise her with something!) and just do it. Don't sound wishy washy while rehearsing your plan to her. Sound confident that you two will have a good time! I can't tell you how many women I've talked to that told me he just said "whatever you want to do is fine with me." It amazes me women, who are indecisive by nature, put up with this crap. I promise, if you show initiative, you've just stomped most of your competition. Don't worry, if she likes you she will plan some dates and even pay for them down the line.
- Make your profile honest. Use current pictures and don't lie about where you stand on things. It will backfire in the end. Be honest about your height and body type as well. When she comes to meet you and discovers that you're really 5'7" and "a few extra pounds" instead of 6' and "athletic" like you said, she's gone. No, it's not being shallow. You lied, and you can't win her over with your personality if you lie about your appearance.
Don'ts:
- Send a picture of your penis to a woman. Don't freaking do it, okay? It's a bad fucking idea and will get you nowhere. I get it, you love your dick. Well, good for you. If you want her to love it someday, let her either: 1) Ask for a picture of your meat pole; 2) Reach in your pants in person to find it in person; and 3) Let her discover it when you're both ready to bump uglies in person. Trust me, if she wants to see blurry penis images, she can google images "idiotic schlong pics from Internet dating" and find more results than she cares to see. DON'T SEND A PICTURE OF YOUR PENIS TO A WOMAN YOU DON'T KNOW! Yes, it happens all the time, hence my need to mention it. If you're reading this and laughing, good for you. For the rest, heed this advice if you want a woman from the Internet to touch your wiener in real life someday.
- Post shirtless pictures. Maybe there's a few women who dig that. But mostly, there are two problems with it. First of all, most of you aren't anything special. So, you hit the gym 4-5 days a week and have some good pecs and arms. Great. There are thousands of guys like you, though, sorry to say. Unless you're ripped beyond belief, you have no business going shirtless on a dating website. And, if you must, don't even think about standing in a mirror holding up a cellphone camera to do the job. It's horribly tacky and desperate looking, meat head. Second, most women find it cheesy or cliche to do so. If you must be shirtless, be ripped and be at the beach with friends or something along those lines, not standing in a bathroom with a cellphone.
- Push for commitment right away. Just because she emailed you back, or even met with you for a date or two, does not mean she's your girlfriend; worse are the imbeciles who email a woman for a month and expect her to be his girlfriend. She's not. You have to actually spend time with her in person for that to happen there chief. Don't get all weird and ask for her facebook page and fifteen more pictures just because she responded once. Wait on that until you meet in person, if you must. I personally refuse my facebook page until we meet and have dated a bit, but to each their own. For sure, though, don't do it until you've met in person. A few emails does not a girlfriend make.
- Send her one or more nasty messages because she didn't reply to your first one. Women have told me that they've received repeat messages from guys they're not interested in. First one is "hey, ur cool and awesome and pretty, get back to me if interisted." They aren't interested for any number of reasons, then they get "you stoopid bich, you suck, I hate ur stoopid azz and ur a slut hoebag ur missin out on a grate guy." (yes, mis-spelled for a reason). Really, the women should thank you for showing your true asshole colors there. Obviously, meat head, you liked her enough to message her but now you don't because she didn't like you back. And, I'm sure the guy she would be interested in is a "stupid poopy loser" that you hate. Fine. However, you have now showed her exactly what she's missing out on: A little toddler who throws sand and toys when he doesn't get the toy he wants in the sand box. You want to be the kid who others want to share toys with, not the one who kids have to guard toys from (I used the toddler reference since most male online daters practically are toddlers).
- Send the same copy/paste message to 20 different women. Women in real life like guys who listen and pay attention to what they're saying, then respond to them. Read her profile, have something to say about it, and ask her a question. Make it original and tailor it to her profile. It's worth the time. If you send the same crappy message to 20 women and none of them respond, you've taken those 20 out from wanting to talk with you in the future. Take that same amount of time to send messages to your "top 3" women, and you've still left 17 you can message in the future.
- Spend all your time on the "hotties." There are perfectly sexy women, some would rate as 7/10 in the real world or whatever, that aren't getting any attention on the site. Meanwhile, there are perfect 10s getting literally hundreds of messages per day. Why compete with hundreds of guys? Go for the slightly less hot, you'll have better chances that way. And, in my experience, women have looked better in person, anyway.
- Pay for online dating. eHarmoney is tough; you spend a ton of time filling out a questionnaire, then matches are picked for you, making it impossible to browse profiles. I've often heard of people being matched up with others they don't find attractive and when they do, those attractive people often don't respond. Sometimes, they had a "free weekend" profile and aren't on the site anymore! Match.com is a little better, so I've been told, but again they match you up with people and don't let you browse "everyone" like the free sites do. Free sites have sketchy people, but there are more people in general and you can browse freely. OkCupid and Plenty of Fish are both good free sites that work for a lot of people.
OK there guys! I don't have one for women, maybe next time. Women are afforded the luxury of being picky online so the advice set would look quite a bit different. What I gave you above should be a good start. Apply them, be honest with yourself and with others, and be patient. I think you'll come to find out that women on these sites, including the free ones, are often pretty, educated, smart, and overall good catches. They're using it for the same reasons as you; it can be tough to meet quality people in the real world! I personally used it to "branch out" from friends of friends in the neighborhood and expand my dating pool. It works really well if you let it work for you.
Good luck fellers!
Food for my own thought:
- A blog about "my life" would be fairly mundane. Sure, my life has interesting points, but overall it's probably ordinary in lots of ways.
- A blog about a typical topic in which the general public may have some knowledge is kind of pointless, no? Like, Nick already blogs Twins, I read tons of blogs about fishing... get the point?
- Personal opinions are a dime a dozen... "Opinions and assholes, every one's got 'em." Still, some opinions are going to find their way into here, it's human nature! Mine are strong, so beware, tender readers (imaginary readers, I mean)!!!
This blog will be a random one about random topics.
For today's edition:
Since my current relationship and the one that ended last were both found from online sources, here's a little advice about online dating for guys. Do's and don'ts, if you will. A few background points:
- Men outnumber women around 3 to 1 on most sites, and certainly to some extent on every site.
- Just like in real life, women will hardly ever be the aggressor, or one to initiate "conversation."
- Websites are meant/designed to arrange a meet in real life. Not naked web cam sessions. This advice blog doesn't cover that sort of website...
With that...
Do's:
- Use your spell check. Even better, copy any messages you send to a woman into word or other software that checks grammar too and re-paste later... "But what if I don't have/can't afford Word?" Download Open Office (www.openoffice.org). It's free and it works really well. This counts, guys. You look like a moron if you send a message with mis-spelled words and an overall butchery of grammar. Chicks dig smart dudes for a number of reasons. Even if you're not smart, spelling and grammar done correctly makes it look like you at least might be above a 6th grade reading level. This puts you ahead of at least 90% of your competition in the online dating world.
- Be original. Swallow your pride and browse the profiles of other men/little boys (which ever applies) to gauge your competition. You'll quickly discover a bunch of things that "every" guy has. Avoid those. You'll also run across clever, original, and witty ones (few and far between). If you actually want to meet a quality girl on there and you aren't a 10/10 in the looks department, originality and wit go a long way. Take the time to do that and it will be worth it.
- Be patient. You're not having sex one week after singing up and putting a picture in some profile up somewhere. It may take awhile to meet someone who is a quality person. Don't give up, and don't shut out the real world for dating prospects, either. It took me almost a year and a half and nearly a dozen dates ranging from crappy to decent before I met my current girlfriend. I was patient, picky, "in" the real world, and had no problem being single until I could find "her" who would make me happy.
- Be assertive. Women like assertive men who take the lead, even the hard core feminists to some degree... As a generation of men raised by women, we're pussies and afraid to tell "her" what's up sometimes in fear of womanly wrath. As long as you don't come off as a cocky asshole, go ahead and express an opinion and show a back bone. It might even shock some women who are used to hanging out with doormat guys. Also, plan the first few dates, should you actually coax her into meeting with you. It shows initiative. Have a plan, run it by her (or, when you get to know her a bit better, surprise her with something!) and just do it. Don't sound wishy washy while rehearsing your plan to her. Sound confident that you two will have a good time! I can't tell you how many women I've talked to that told me he just said "whatever you want to do is fine with me." It amazes me women, who are indecisive by nature, put up with this crap. I promise, if you show initiative, you've just stomped most of your competition. Don't worry, if she likes you she will plan some dates and even pay for them down the line.
- Make your profile honest. Use current pictures and don't lie about where you stand on things. It will backfire in the end. Be honest about your height and body type as well. When she comes to meet you and discovers that you're really 5'7" and "a few extra pounds" instead of 6' and "athletic" like you said, she's gone. No, it's not being shallow. You lied, and you can't win her over with your personality if you lie about your appearance.
Don'ts:
- Send a picture of your penis to a woman. Don't freaking do it, okay? It's a bad fucking idea and will get you nowhere. I get it, you love your dick. Well, good for you. If you want her to love it someday, let her either: 1) Ask for a picture of your meat pole; 2) Reach in your pants in person to find it in person; and 3) Let her discover it when you're both ready to bump uglies in person. Trust me, if she wants to see blurry penis images, she can google images "idiotic schlong pics from Internet dating" and find more results than she cares to see. DON'T SEND A PICTURE OF YOUR PENIS TO A WOMAN YOU DON'T KNOW! Yes, it happens all the time, hence my need to mention it. If you're reading this and laughing, good for you. For the rest, heed this advice if you want a woman from the Internet to touch your wiener in real life someday.
- Post shirtless pictures. Maybe there's a few women who dig that. But mostly, there are two problems with it. First of all, most of you aren't anything special. So, you hit the gym 4-5 days a week and have some good pecs and arms. Great. There are thousands of guys like you, though, sorry to say. Unless you're ripped beyond belief, you have no business going shirtless on a dating website. And, if you must, don't even think about standing in a mirror holding up a cellphone camera to do the job. It's horribly tacky and desperate looking, meat head. Second, most women find it cheesy or cliche to do so. If you must be shirtless, be ripped and be at the beach with friends or something along those lines, not standing in a bathroom with a cellphone.
- Push for commitment right away. Just because she emailed you back, or even met with you for a date or two, does not mean she's your girlfriend; worse are the imbeciles who email a woman for a month and expect her to be his girlfriend. She's not. You have to actually spend time with her in person for that to happen there chief. Don't get all weird and ask for her facebook page and fifteen more pictures just because she responded once. Wait on that until you meet in person, if you must. I personally refuse my facebook page until we meet and have dated a bit, but to each their own. For sure, though, don't do it until you've met in person. A few emails does not a girlfriend make.
- Send her one or more nasty messages because she didn't reply to your first one. Women have told me that they've received repeat messages from guys they're not interested in. First one is "hey, ur cool and awesome and pretty, get back to me if interisted." They aren't interested for any number of reasons, then they get "you stoopid bich, you suck, I hate ur stoopid azz and ur a slut hoebag ur missin out on a grate guy." (yes, mis-spelled for a reason). Really, the women should thank you for showing your true asshole colors there. Obviously, meat head, you liked her enough to message her but now you don't because she didn't like you back. And, I'm sure the guy she would be interested in is a "stupid poopy loser" that you hate. Fine. However, you have now showed her exactly what she's missing out on: A little toddler who throws sand and toys when he doesn't get the toy he wants in the sand box. You want to be the kid who others want to share toys with, not the one who kids have to guard toys from (I used the toddler reference since most male online daters practically are toddlers).
- Send the same copy/paste message to 20 different women. Women in real life like guys who listen and pay attention to what they're saying, then respond to them. Read her profile, have something to say about it, and ask her a question. Make it original and tailor it to her profile. It's worth the time. If you send the same crappy message to 20 women and none of them respond, you've taken those 20 out from wanting to talk with you in the future. Take that same amount of time to send messages to your "top 3" women, and you've still left 17 you can message in the future.
- Spend all your time on the "hotties." There are perfectly sexy women, some would rate as 7/10 in the real world or whatever, that aren't getting any attention on the site. Meanwhile, there are perfect 10s getting literally hundreds of messages per day. Why compete with hundreds of guys? Go for the slightly less hot, you'll have better chances that way. And, in my experience, women have looked better in person, anyway.
- Pay for online dating. eHarmoney is tough; you spend a ton of time filling out a questionnaire, then matches are picked for you, making it impossible to browse profiles. I've often heard of people being matched up with others they don't find attractive and when they do, those attractive people often don't respond. Sometimes, they had a "free weekend" profile and aren't on the site anymore! Match.com is a little better, so I've been told, but again they match you up with people and don't let you browse "everyone" like the free sites do. Free sites have sketchy people, but there are more people in general and you can browse freely. OkCupid and Plenty of Fish are both good free sites that work for a lot of people.
OK there guys! I don't have one for women, maybe next time. Women are afforded the luxury of being picky online so the advice set would look quite a bit different. What I gave you above should be a good start. Apply them, be honest with yourself and with others, and be patient. I think you'll come to find out that women on these sites, including the free ones, are often pretty, educated, smart, and overall good catches. They're using it for the same reasons as you; it can be tough to meet quality people in the real world! I personally used it to "branch out" from friends of friends in the neighborhood and expand my dating pool. It works really well if you let it work for you.
Good luck fellers!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
In the life and times of... the first blog, EVER!!!
Life ain't a B, sometimes it just hurts like one... My old man said that, not me.
I grew up in St. Paul. Right now it's nice. Soon, it's going to be frozen stiff for at least three straight months.
But, the focus of this first one is to highlight some good.
I have a good girlfriend who still takes my calls! Imagine that! She's cute, fun, funny, responsible, not overly sensitive, and isn't afraid to throw her opinion out there.
I have a good family, mostly, who are cool to hang with. I have a cousin that's starting to irk me but I don't think about that/her at all. My poor Uncle John is facing his last days. His faith in god should help him make it to the end in dignity. However through this all, I won't tell anyone or give anyone the idea that I'm a faithful, god fearing man, because people who know me well know that I think god is imaginary. Still, if his faith gets him to the end, good for him!
My house... Yeah, not a big fan. Every improvement is too expensive and not worth doing in this economy of falling home prices and record foreclosures. Just gonna hang on and tough it out, maybe someday investments there will pay off, but I'm not holding my breath. Basically, I'm stuck there for a long while *sigh* but oh well, it is what it is.
I'd LOVE to blog about sports and really dig Nick's Twins Blog. Nick's about my age and is a very good writer. Sure, he's a bit of a "homer" but he's a Twins fan! Overall, though, it's pretty objective and not too biased, so I give him credit. Even better, it's not overly optimistic or negative!
The reason I can't blog about the Twins right now (even for my own personal use) is because I scaled down my TV channels in the name of economics. So, no FSN, only get to watch on Sundays. But, football, now that's another story. I will be posting afterthoughts on Vikings games on Mondays and maybe another two or three during the week leading up to the next one. I'll write my first one with Brett comes back (or not, but I'm guessing he suits up soon), how about that? Sounds good!
We'll call 'er quits for now!
I grew up in St. Paul. Right now it's nice. Soon, it's going to be frozen stiff for at least three straight months.
But, the focus of this first one is to highlight some good.
I have a good girlfriend who still takes my calls! Imagine that! She's cute, fun, funny, responsible, not overly sensitive, and isn't afraid to throw her opinion out there.
I have a good family, mostly, who are cool to hang with. I have a cousin that's starting to irk me but I don't think about that/her at all. My poor Uncle John is facing his last days. His faith in god should help him make it to the end in dignity. However through this all, I won't tell anyone or give anyone the idea that I'm a faithful, god fearing man, because people who know me well know that I think god is imaginary. Still, if his faith gets him to the end, good for him!
My house... Yeah, not a big fan. Every improvement is too expensive and not worth doing in this economy of falling home prices and record foreclosures. Just gonna hang on and tough it out, maybe someday investments there will pay off, but I'm not holding my breath. Basically, I'm stuck there for a long while *sigh* but oh well, it is what it is.
I'd LOVE to blog about sports and really dig Nick's Twins Blog. Nick's about my age and is a very good writer. Sure, he's a bit of a "homer" but he's a Twins fan! Overall, though, it's pretty objective and not too biased, so I give him credit. Even better, it's not overly optimistic or negative!
The reason I can't blog about the Twins right now (even for my own personal use) is because I scaled down my TV channels in the name of economics. So, no FSN, only get to watch on Sundays. But, football, now that's another story. I will be posting afterthoughts on Vikings games on Mondays and maybe another two or three during the week leading up to the next one. I'll write my first one with Brett comes back (or not, but I'm guessing he suits up soon), how about that? Sounds good!
We'll call 'er quits for now!
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