Untitled

2010 in Review

2011-01-14T12:35:00.000-08:00

Here are some memories from 2010

January:

Waking up New Years Day in my future in laws house in Lubbock, TX

1st gig as a Bartender at a bowling alley in CO Springs

February:

V-Day with a cutie

March:

No distinct memories

April:

Shadowing my buddy, Kevin the PT, as he showed me the amazing art of dry point needling

May:

Celebrating a year with Carrie with wine, pizza, and ice cream

Spontaneous road trip to pick up my future Mother in Law in Texas when her flight to CO for Carrie's bachelorette party was cancelled due to bad weather.

Finishing my first year back to school with a 3.8 GPA

June:

Beginning the festivities at the end of June

July:

07/03/2010 making the biggest commitment I could ever make. best decision i've made so far...

The unforgettable party that followed

An epic evening with those closest to me in a luxury box at Coors Field.

10 days of bliss in Oahu.

Moving into our first home together in Denver

August:

no specific memories....just learning to be a husband :)

September:

a phone call from Greg and Jenn. Welcome Carter Fertig!

October:

Ran my 2nd Marathon. This time I wasn't alone at the finish line!

November:

Sufjan in concert...Unforgettable!

Great trip to Sharon, PA. Greg cooks a mean bird.

December:

Surprise to me. Thank you my Love, and all who attended. I loved it.

Invitation to interview for UCD's PT school. Hard work beginning to pay off.

Fun Christmas in CO Springs. Sleeping on a love sack with Carrie for the first time.

Amazing year. Here's to 2011

some more reasons I asked

2010-06-20T21:45:00.001-07:00

Additional things I dig about her...

She can run 5 miles barely breaking a sweat.

There's nothing I'm ashamed to share with her.

She's the prettiest girl in any room she walks in to.

Her farts rarely smell.

She picks my clothes out, relieving me of the stress of shopping for myself.

If I have a bothersome booger, I can pick it in front of her without embarrassment.

She makes me feel kinda funny, like when I used to climb the rope in gym class.

She's gonna be a fantastic mom.

more to follow...

90's Albums

2010-06-16T15:31:00.000-07:00

Here are my favorite albums of the 90's...

1. Radiohead - OK Computer (1997)

Stunning...breathtaking...weird...simply brilliant. I had heard Radiohead songs before, but this is the album that sold me on them all those years ago. Wow.

2. Lauryn Hill - The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill (1998)

Lyrically brilliant, powerful rapper, and vocally jaw dropping. She is something else. Thank the powers that she is a nut job. If she was emotionally stable, we'd most likely be deprived of her moving music.

3. Radiohead - The Bends (1995)

Not as influential as ok computer, but this is one of the best pure rock and roll records of all time. So much energy. I never tire listening to it.

4. Jeff Buckley - Grace (1994)

Death came to this man all too early. Vocally, he's as good as any rock star I've ever heard, Freddie Mercury notwithstanding. Lyrically, he's very unique. And he sure can play guitar. Amazing album.

5. Pearl Jam - Ten (1991)

Nevermind gets all the grunge love, but I happen to enjoy this one more. This album shows Nirvana firing on all cylinders.

6. Elliott Smith - Either/Or (1997)

Sometimes I need to feel sad, and this is my go to album for that. Again I ask, if Elliott was happy, would we be deprived of something great?

7. Nirvana - Nevermind (1991)

Even with all the hype and mystique surrounding this album, it still manages to be awesome.

8. Sigur Ros - Agaetis Byrjun (1999)

Holy cow, this album knocked me on my ass, in a completely calming and euphoric way. I hadn't heard beauty in my car's speakers like this before.

9. The Smashing Pumpkins - Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness (1995)

Not as focused as Siamese Dream, but an altogether more rewarding experience. Corgan throws everything including the kitchen sink into this album. God help me I love it.

10. Mos Def - Black on Both Sides (1999)

Spectacular hip hop album. Lyrically profound and the beats make me tingle in my giblets.

11. Bjork - Homogenic (1997)

The best album by one of the best vocalists recording right now.

12. Wilco - Being There (1996)

One of the best American bands of the last 15 years. This album of southern rock/country may be their crowning achievement.

13. Pearl Jam - Vitalogy (1994)

I love this album almost as much as ten.

14. Pavement - Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain (1994)

This is a truly unique alternative band. This album is a new favorite.

15. Red House Painters - Ocean Beach (1995)

Great album by a great band that nobody listens to. Pity.

16. Elliott Smith - XO (1998)

Some kind of pop wonder this album is. He is so good.

17. Rage Against the Machine - Self Titled (1992)

This album punches you in the gut. Brings back high school memories.

18. Smashing Pumpkins - Siamese Dream - (1993)

Fantastic arena rock album. Love it.

19. The Roots - Things Fall Apart (1999)

Brilliant hip hop album. Check it out.

20. U2 - Achtung Baby (1991)

Doesn't reach the heights of their 80's stuff, but a great album nonetheless.

Some honorable mentions. (Grew up on 90's music so I have a few more favs)

some reasons i asked...

2010-06-13T22:10:00.000-07:00

It recently occurred to me that I am getting married in less than three weeks and I haven't written at all about that. So every few days for the next few weeks, I'm gonna jot down a few things that I love about the future Mrs. Karlik.

She smiles with her whole body.

She likes the taste of beer.

She gives stellar hugs.

When I met her, she knew very little about the Colorado Rockies. A few weeks ago I was at a game with my buddies and she texted me to ask who was winning. When I told her the Rockies were, she actually got excited. She didn't know it at the time but that meant a lot to me.

I can fart in front of her without consequence, usually.

Killer rear end.

I can cry in front of her without shame.

Those are just a few....more to come later.
She's proud of me even though I'm a 27 year old full time student/part time bartender who lives in his parent's basement.

Coffee and her...

2010-06-12T10:06:00.000-07:00

Two of my favorite things, combined...In 3 weeks, I'll have both these things every morning.

Current Reading

2010-06-01T15:20:00.000-07:00

I'll get back to my decades this week, but I have to make a slight detour. I'm only halfway through this book, but its already one of the best novels I've ever read. If you're looking for something to read, this is it...

A Prayer For Owen Meany

80's Film

2010-05-13T10:38:00.001-07:00

Here are my favorite movies from the 80's.

1. Amadeus - Dir. Milos Forman (1984)

This film is FANTASTIC! Two of the best performances in any movie are right here in this masterpiece. There is an overload of music, humor, drama, suspense, color, but somehow it works beautifully. A must see for a film lover.

2. Platoon - Dir. Oliver Stone (1986)

There is a feeling of authenticity in this film. Maybe its because Oliver Stone did a tour of duty in Vietnam. Such an amazing film.

3. The Empire Strikes Back - Dir. Irvin Kershner (1980)

The best of all the Star Wars films. So much emotion. Such an interesting story. I love, love, love this film.

4. Raging Bull - Dir. Martin Scorsese (1980)

Robert De Niro gives the best performance of his career in one of the best of all character studies.

5. Raiders of the Lost Ark - Dir. Steven Spielberg (1981)

Nobody does adventure like Spielberg.

6. My Left Foot - Dir. Jim Sheridan (1989)

Daniel Day-Lewis gives one of the best performances of the decade in a truly inspirational film. The greatest aspect of the film is in its portrayal of Christy Brown who, while amazing, was not in any way heroic. Check this one out.

7. Driving Miss Daisy - Dir. Bruce Beresford (1989)

I was not looking forward to this film. Thought it would be amazingly boring. Imagine my surprise when it moved me to tears. What a beautiful film about friendship.

8. Ordinary People - Dir. Robert Redford (1980)

Robert Redford's directorial debut, and it was a doozy. Such a painful film about the deep seeded pain in seemingly normal families.

9. Field of Dreams - Dir. Phil Alden Robinson (1989)

A childhood favorite. I love the enigma this film is. It never explains the mystery behind anything, which is one of its strengths.

10. When Harry Met Sally - Dir. Rob Reiner (1989)

Some of the best dialogue in any movie ever. This film actually gives me insight into my current relationship.

11. Sophie's Choice - Dir. Alan J. Pakula (1982)

This film is an emotional roundhouse to the gut. Meryl Streep is a goddess.

12. Back to the Future - Dir. Robert Zemeckis (1985)

Michael J. Fox is a gifted comedic actor. And this is one of the best of all fantasy films.

13. The Princess Bride - Dir. Rob Reiner (1987)

How did this film work? Its so outrageous. Yet it works as a comedy, romance, fantasy, action, and sometimes political commentary. Amazing.

14. Blade Runner - Dir. Ridley Scott (1982)

A visually stunning film. One of my favorite scifi films.

15. Do the Right Thing - Dir. Spike Lee (1989)

Spike Lee's best. Great film about race relations.

16. Say Anything - Dir. Cameron Crowe (1989)

Such a sweet love story. so tender and romantic.

17. Die Hard - Dir. John McTiernan (1988)

Sheer adrenaline! Bruce Willis at his best.

18. A Christmas Story - Dir. Bob Clark (1983)

I don't know if any other film has done nostalgia this well.

19. Bull Durham - Dir. Ron Shelton (1988)

This film has an extremely high baseball IQ. So funny, yet touching.

20. The Karate Kid - Dir. John G. Avildsen (1984)

One of the best friendships of all film. I love this film.

Los Suns

2010-05-06T12:51:00.001-07:00

The following article made me proud to be a sports fan. With the Nuggets eliminated from the playoffs, I will be rooting for Los Suns to take the NBA title.

80's Albums

2010-04-28T15:08:00.000-07:00

My favorite albums of the 80's...

1. Michael Jackson - Thriller (1982)

This may be the best pop album ever recorded. MJ was not a manufactured star like the mickey mouse clubbers of today. He wrote most of his own lyrics and music, which were rarely ever sissy bubble gum pop songs about silly love. Such a badass album!

2. U2 - The Joshua Tree (1987)

Beautiful rock and roll album by one of the most consistent bands of the 80's. They've fallen off in the past decade, but they knew what was up in 1987.

3. The Smiths - The Queen is Dead (1986)

One of the greatest all time underground bands. Morrissey's voice is instantly recognizable and Johnny Marr was one of the more creative guitarists around. This is their crowning achievement.

4. Guns n Roses - Appetite for Destruction (1987)

This album melts my face everytime I listen to it. Wow, these guys ruled for a bit.

5. U2 - War (1983)

This would be the best album for most bands, but for U2, nothing measures to Joshua Tree. this album is fantastic though. so intense.

6. Michael Jackson - Bad (1987)

King of Pop went angry with this record. Served him well, because it is awesome.

7. Joy Division - Closer (1980)

Yet another band whose life was cut short by suicide. I was not too familiar with this band 'til I saw the movie "Control" a couple of years ago. Check them out.

8. The Stone Roses - Self titled (1989)

One album wonder, but what a wonderful album it is. Listen to it and see where some other Brit rock bands of the 90's and 2000's drew influence.

9. Tom Petty - Full Moon Fever (1989)

Hard to pick one Petty album, but this one has so much. This guy is a rocker for the ages.

10. U2 - Boy (1980)

This band ruled the 80's. This is their first, and lesser known album. Don't let that discourage you from listening to it. This album is packed with more energy than most of their other stuff.

11. Violent Femmes - Self titled (1983)

This band is far too underground, their music deserves to be heard. Yeah, everyone knows "Blister in the Sun" and "Add it Up." But this album is full of great stuff.

12. Peter Gabriel - So (1986)

I get a lot of crap for digging this album, but who cares! Gabriel is stellar. In your eyes has gotta be one of the most romantic pop songs ever recorded.

13. The Police - Synchronicity (1983)

Great album from a great band.

14. U2 - The Unforgettable Fire (1985)

Wow, it took them 7 albums to make a bad one. This one is so great as well. Lots and lots of the Edge on this one.

15. The Clash - Combat Rock (1982)

So many of their classics on this album.

16. Prince - Purple Rain (1984)

Prince rules the sexually ambiguous glam rock. What a great party record.

17. Bruce Springsteen - Born in the USA (1984)

Springsteen isn't my absolute favorite, but he's got some great stuff.

18. Talking Heads - Remain in the Light (1980)

Weird Weird band, but strikingly good.

19. The Smiths - Self Titled (1984)

This first album of theirs was a doozy. I love them.

20. The Cure - Boys Don't Cry (1980)

Fun band of the 80's with a solid album.

your thoughts...

70's Film

2010-04-22T14:11:00.000-07:00

Here are my favorite films of the 70's...

1. The Godfather - Dir. Francis Ford Coppola (1972)

Perhaps the greatest of all American film. Has everything I could possibly ever want in a movie. absolutely perfect!

2. The Godfather part II - Dir. Francis Ford Coppola (1974)

Only because one had to be first and one had to be second. another perfect film. further adds to the tragedy. wow!

3. Network - Dir. Sidney Lumet (1976)

Is it a coincidence that Robert Duvall stars in all three of my top 3 films? this film is outrageous. what a brilliant and prophetic look into the future of reality tv, over 20 years early!

4. Jaws - Dir. Steven Spielberg (1975)

I still don't think its safe to go back in the water. Spielberg takes what could've been a standard thriller and turns in into something far more frightening and engaging.

5. The Deer Hunter - Dir. Michael Cimino (1978)

contains a few of the most intense scenes ever committed to film. this is a gut wrenching and unforgettable film.

6. Rocky - Dir. John G. Avildsen (1976)

A tender love story disguised as a rags to riches sports film. Shows that Stallone is a true acting and writing talent when he wants to be. He later cashed in for big bucks, can you blame him?

7. Dog Day Afternoon - Dir. Sidney Lumet (1975)

Pacino's best performance in an amazingly intense film. Lumet brilliantly directs.

8. Patton - Dir. Franklin J. Schaffner (1970)

One of the most brilliant performances of any film ever.

9. Taxi Driver - Dir. Martin Scorsese (1976)

Scorsese's first of several brilliant films. De Niro is frightening in this.

10. Star Wars - Dir. George Lucas (1977)

Before George Lucas got terrible. an amazing fantasy adventure followed by an even better film 3 years later.

11. Close Encounters of the Third Kind - Dir. Steven Spielberg (1977)

An inspiring film of hope and faith.

12. Being There - Dir. Hal Ashby (1979)

A very good film made great by a perfect ending.

13. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest - Dir. Milos Forman (1975)

One of Nicholson's Best.

14. A Clockwork Orange - Dir. Stanley Kubrick (1971)

A weird and disturbing film with a frightening performance from Malcolm McDowell

15. Alien - Dir. Ridley Scott (1979)

Brilliant thriller. completely frightening.

16. Monty Python and the Holy Grail - Dir. Terry Jones (1975)

One of the weirdest comedies i've ever seen. still makes me laugh.

17. The French Connection - Dir. William Friedkin (1971)

A great performance from one of my favorite actors, Gene Hackmen.

18. Chinatown - Dir. Roman Polanski (1974)

A great pre-statutory rape film for Polanski.

19. Annie Hall - Dir. Woody Allen (1977)

Woody Allen's funniest film.

20. Blazing Saddles - Dir. Mel Brooks (1974)

Funny stuff from Mel Brooks.

Thoughts and feelings?

70's Albums

2010-04-09T22:14:00.000-07:00

Here are my favorite albums of the 70's

1. Led Zeppelin - Untitled (IV) (1971)

It was hard for me to choose my #1. But it would have been even harder to not pick this as #1. Hell of an album. Enough has been written about it, so I'll stop here.

2. Pink Floyd - Dark Side of the Moon (1973)

Mesmerizing. thats what this album is. I love love love it.

3. Pink Floyd - Wish You Were Here (1975)

Shine on you Crazy Diamond is one of the greatest songs ever recorded.

4. Led Zeppelin - III (1970)

Can you tell who my two favorite bands of the decade are? This album had a bit more folky feel to it after the hard rock that was II. Great listen.

5. Fleetwood Mac - Rumours (1977)

Best album from a great band. So many classic songs on this record.

6. Marvin Gaye - What's Going On (1971)

God he was talented. May he rest in peace.

7. Queen - A Night at the Opera (1975)

Freddie could sing, brian may could play. This is a hell of an album.

8. Pink Floyd - Animals (1977)

This album takes more patient. Almost no song is under 15 minutes. It is well worth it though.

9. The Who - Who's Next (1971)

These guys sure as hell could rock. the super bowl did not do them justice.

10. Neil Young - Harvest

How did such a whiny guy create such a great album? He is amazing.

11. Led Zeppelin - Physical Graffiti (1975)

How many great albums can they make. both discs are amazing.

12. Black Sabbath - Paranoid (1970)

13. Led Zeppelin - Houses of the Holy (1973)

http://www.apoenafrota.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2007/11/led_zeppelin_houses_of_the_holy.jpg

another great album from these guys

14. The Clash - London Calling (1979)

Not a huge punk fan, but love this album and these guys.

15. Nick Drake - Pink Moon (1972)

This album is haunting.

16. The Beatles - Let it Be (1970)

http://www.amiright.com/album-covers/images/album-The-Beatles-Let-It-Be.jpg

Good album from a great band

17. Simon and Garfunkel - Bridge over Troubled Water (1970)

These guys are so consistent.

18. Joy Division - Unknown Pleasures (1979)

Great album by a band that died before its time.

19. Stevie Wonder - Talking Book (1972)

20. Michael Jackson - Off the wall (1979)

Awesomely disco.

Let me know what you think

Film '60's

2010-03-28T20:52:00.000-07:00

My favorite film of the 1960's....

1. 2001: A Space Odyssey - Dir. Stanley Kubrick (1967)

Breathtaking and magnificent. Watched it again two weeks ago. Any lover of film must see this one. the film asks tough questions and gives no easy answers, if answers at all...

2. The Hustler - Dir. Robert Rossen (1961)

Paul Newman gives his best performance in a film that's slow, yet thrilling, funny, yet depressing. I love love love this movie.

3. Lawrence of Arabia - Dir. David Lean (1962)

David Lean made fantastic adventure films. This film is arguably his best. So long, yet so worth it.

4. Psycho - Dir. Alfred Hitchcock (1960)

I was an idiot and watched the horrible Gus Van Sant version over ten years ago when it came out before I'd ever seen this version. No matter, this one still had a strong impact on me. Truly eerie, truly frightening, truly brilliant. John, you are right, there is all sorts of T and A on this poster.

5. Cool Hand Luke - Dir. Stuart Rosenberg (1967)

Paul Newman is a master. He owns this movie. all those damn eggs!

6. Dr. Strangelove: Or, How I learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb - Dir. Stanley Kubrick (1964)

Brilliant and Groundbreaking. Describes pretty much every Kubrick film. Peter Sellers got all the recognition, but George C. Scott gives the truly brilliant performance.

7. Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid - Dir. George Roy Hill (1969)

Even with the silly, misguided, "raindrops keep falling on my head" sequence, this is a thrilling and fun adventure film.

8. The Graduate - Dir. Mike Nichols (1967)

I had dirty dreams about Anne Bancroft for months after seeing this film. Dustin Hoffman is spot on perfect. Really interesting film, even more interesting after i'd been a graduate for a few years.

9. The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly - Dir. Sergio Leone (1966)

One hell of a thrilling film. My favorite action oriented Eastwood western.

10. Hud - Dir. Martin Ritt (1963)

Did I really just put 4 Paul Newman films in the top 10? You're damn right I did! He's fantastic yet again as the disappointing son in this subtle, yet moving experience.

11. Midnight Cowboy - Dir. John Schlesinger (1969)

Dustin Hoffman gives his best performance in this sadly moving film.

12. Persona - Dir. Ingmar Bergman (1967)

Weird. Very weird, but powerful. Slow, but worth it. Bergman is a genius.

13. 8 1/2 - Dir. Federico Fellini (1963)

Fantastic. Fellini is Fantastic. Later remade as the musical "Nine."

14. The Sound of Music - Dir. Robert Wise (1965)

I would do naughty things to Julie Andrews

15. Spartacus - Dir. Stanley Kubrick (1960)

Kubrick also does sword and sandal epics flawlessly.

16. The Producers - Dir. Mel Brooks (1968)

Hilarious, but later bastardized and converted to a musical.

17. Easy Rider - Dir. Dennis Hopper (1969)

Trippy experience.

18. The Great Escape - Dir. John Sturges (1963)

Fun and thrilling. The motorcycle chase is awesome.

19. Bonnie and Clyde - Dir. Arthur Penn (1967)

Interesting things to say about celebrity and violence.

20. In the Heat of the Night - Dir. Norman Jewison (1967)

Great performances by Steiger and Poiter

Hope you enjoyed. Tell me what you think...

60's music

2010-03-23T10:18:00.000-07:00

Here are my favorite albums released in the 60's...

1. The Beatles - Beatles(White Album) (1968)

Because its cluttered, weird, all over the place, and has some of the best rock music you'll ever hear.

2. Led Zeppelin - I (1969)

The amazing debut from one of the greatest of all rock bands.

3. Led Zeppelin - II (1969)

One of the greatest guitar albums ever. And drum albums as well. Why don't we just say one of the greatest of all rock albums.

4. The Beatles - Abbey Road (1969)

5. Bob Dylan - The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan (1963)

Traditionally this is not ranked as Dylan's greatest, but its my favorite. I love love love this album.

6. The Beatles - Revolver (1966)

Yes, another beatles album, and more still to come. This album was their turning point, out of lovey dovey pop songs.

7. Jimi Hendrix - Are You Experienced (1967)

Hard to pick a favorite hendrix album, but if pressed its this one.

8. The Beatles - Rubber Soul (1965)

another great album by a great great band.

9. The Beach Boys - Pet Sounds (1966)

brian wilson sure as hell can write a catchy love song

10. Jimi Hendrix - Electric Ladyland (1968)

Damn this guy can play guitar

11. Simon and Garfunkel - Bookends (1968)

Frances McDormand was right, they do look stoned

12. Bob Dylan - Highway 61 Revisited (1965)

not everyone thought it would work, but dylan sounded great plugged in.

13. The Beatles - Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band (1967)

Lovely rita rocks

14. The Rolling Stones - Let it Bleed (1969)

Ultimate party rock band with a great party rock album

15. Jimi Hendrix - Axis Bold as Love (1967)

Great he is

16. Simon and Garfunkel - Parsley Sage Rosemary and Thyme (1966)

They make me smile

17. Nick Drake - Five Leaves Left (1969)

so soothing

18. The Velvet Underground - The Velvet Underground and Nico (1967)

trippy album, me like.

19. Simon and Garfunkel - Sounds of Silence (1966)

good stuff

20. Neil Young - Everybody knows this is Nowhere (1969)

I like his 70's stuff better, but good album nonetheless.

Let me know what you guys think.

Film pre 1960

2010-03-18T12:55:00.000-07:00

As a way to stay busy while I don't have much studying to do over spring break, I've decided to compile a series of lists.

A few years ago I made lists of my favorite films and albums from each decade. After hearing many more albums, watching and rewatching much film, I've decided to update the lists.

Here are my favorite films pre 1960

1. On the Waterfront - Dir. Elia Kazan (1954)

This film moved me so incredibly deeply the first time I saw it. Brando gives a legendary performance.

2. The Bicycle Thief - Dir. Vittorio De Sica (1948)

One of the simplest yet greatest of all movies

3. 12 Angry Men - Dir. Sidney Lumet (1957)

I Still can't get over how exciting this film is while taking place in one room.

4. Citizen Kane - Dir. Orson Welles (1941)

A must see for any film lover.

5. Rear Window - Dir. Alfred Hitchcock (1954)

An intense experience. Grace Kelly is beautiful. Jimmy Stewart is amazing.

6. Seven Samurai - Dir. Akira Kurosawa (1954)

The Best of Kurosawa, which is saying a lot.

7. Sunset Boulevard - Dir. Billy Wilder (1950)

Weird and creepy film noir with great performances.

8. Casablanca - Dir. Michael Curtiz (1942)

Classic dialogue and romance.

9. Bridge on the River Kwai - Dir. David Lean (1957)

fantastic adventure story.

10. Rashomon - Dir. Akira Kurosawa (1950)

So incredibly influential. Kurosawa is a master.

11. The Wizard of Oz - Dir. Victor Fleming (1939)

Childhood favorite that still makes me smile.

12. The Seventh Seal - Dir. Ingmar Bergman (1957)

Brilliantly contemplative. If you like Bill and Ted's Bogus Journey, check this out.

13. It's a Wonderful Life - Dir. Frank Capra (1946)

Beautiful film. John loves Donna Reed, can't say I argue with him.

14. Ben-Hur - Dir. William Wyler (1959)

I'm glad Charlton Heston didn't have a gun in this film

15. Vertigo - Dir. Alfred Hitchcock (1958)

The master of suspense in another suspenseful film.

16. Giant - Dir. George Stevens (1956)

The only good James Dean performance.

17. A Streetcar Named Desire - Dir. Elia Kazan (1951)

Great performances from Brando and Vivien Leigh

18. The Treasure of the Sierra Madre - Dir. John Huston (1948)

Classic

19. Pinocchio - Dir. Hamilton Luske & Ben Sharpsteen (1940)

One of Disney's best

20. Cat on a Hot Tin Roof - Dir. Richard Brooks (1958)

Great performances by Elizabeth Taylor and Paul Newman.

Next post will be my favorite albums of the 60's.

Film '09

2010-03-01T22:29:00.000-08:00

After 2 full months of 2010, I've finally compiled my best of '09 list. I've waited due to the fact that I've yet to see many of the films released last year that I would have liked to. But alas, I must make the cut at some point.

While I enjoyed several movies this year, I thought it was kind of a down year for film. This could be due to the fact that I haven't seen many, which I will list here.

Film I mean to see eventually...

An Education
A Single Man
The Fantastic Mr. Fox
Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans
The Damned United
Brothers
Ponyo
Invictus
The Informant!
The Men Who Stare at Goats
Antichrist
Crazy Heart
Me and Orson Welles
The Imaginarium of Dr. Parnassus
The White Ribbon
The Lovely Bones
Capitalism: A Love Story
Brief Interviews with Hideous Men
Pirate Radio
Sherlock Holmes
That Evening Sun
Whatever Works

As you can see, I've many films to see...

Here's the List of honorable mentions

Avatar
I Love You, Man
The Hangover
Where the Wild Things Are
Adventureland
Zombieland
It Might Get Loud
This is It

And Here's the top 15

1. Inglourious Basterds

2. (500) Days of Summer

3. The Hurt Locker

4. Precious

5. A Serious Man

6. Moon

7. Up

8. The Road

9. Up in the Air

10. In the Loop

11. Sugar

12. Public Enemies

13. Two Lovers

14. World's Greatest Dad

15. Big Fan

Here they are. What do you think?

Overlooked Albums

2010-02-06T15:19:00.001-08:00

These are two albums that would have made my top 20 list had I listened to them in time.

Sufjan Stevens - The BQE

I'm astounded at his talent. Excels at creating soft folk, writing nuanced lyrics, recording ornate pop, and having fun. Now, he's topped himself. This is a brilliantly composed symphony. Can't wait to see what is in store next.

The Antlers - Hospice

This one took me a few listens, but I am really enjoying it. For some reason they reminded me of Bon Iver, but very different at the same time. Not sure if that makes any sense.

I'll have my movie list soon. Just have two or three more titles to watch.

The Passing of a Legend

2010-01-28T11:58:00.000-08:00

What an interesting life. Interesting due to the fact that an enormously famous person was so unknown in today's society. Salinger lived an immensely private life. His novel "Catcher in the Rye," is one of my top 2 or 3 personal favs. Greatly influential. I also enjoy Franny and Zooey.

This man was never going to publish another thing, yet I'll miss him in some strange way. There was something comforting about knowing every time I picked up the story of Holden Caulfield, that Mr. Salinger was being reclusive somewhere. Maybe he was plotting a great comeback. Maybe he just wanted people to leave him the hell alone.

Rest in peace Mr. Salinger. Thank you for your art. Quality definitely trumps Quantity.

Song Ideas

2010-01-19T10:45:00.000-08:00

I don't officially know how many people actually read this thing, I just know that only 2 or 3 people comment consistently. I need your help...

Carrie has put me in charge of the music portion of our wedding this summer, much to my delight. I've got the wedding music, dinner background music, and other things pretty much covered.

What I need help with is dance music. If you guys could comment with suggestions that aren't obvious; ie...The Village People, Kool and the Gang, Baby got Back etc...that would be appreciated. I am open to hip hop from all eras, indie rock, disco, alternative, anything that you guys would like to dance to that may be off the radar. Thanks for the help.

Albums of '09

2010-01-08T19:11:00.000-08:00

1. Animal Collective - Merriweather Post Pavilion

One time when an album is actually worth all of the hype. The first time I heard it, i knew I was listening to something special. Not a weak moment on the entire album, which is filled with so much energy I'm exhausted at the end. If "My Girls" does not put a smile on your face you need to see a licensed physician.

2. Green Day - 21st Century Breakdown

By far the best thing this band has ever done. They've finally reached their potential and created the rock opera of the decade. Yes the lyrics are melodramatic. Yes, there is no subtlety. But that's all part of the charm.

3. Grizzly Bear - Veckatimest

Yellow house was a good album; moody, atmospheric, but distant. With Veckatimest, they create a much more accessible album. It's catchy, joyful, sometimes heartbreaking. Loved it.

4. Brother Ali - Us

One of the best hip hop albums Ive ever heard. This albino writes lyrics of such poignancy and music with such energy. If you like hip hop, this is your guy

5. The Decemberists - The Hazards of Love

Don't listen to the critics. This is by far their best work. Colin Meloy was made to write a concept album like this. I hope for better, but this may be the pinnacle of their career.

6. Pearl Jam - Backspacer

Their exciting again! Filled with such energy. Political change in the USA does this for some bands. Not a wasted moment on this album. "Amongst the Waves" is amongst the bands best songs.

7. David Bazan - Curse Your Branches

The album that personally affected me the most this year. No album's lyrics came close to capturing me like this one. The music kicks ass as well. Bazan may just be hitting his stride

8. The xx - XX

Best debut album of the year. This British quartet should be around for a while. Moody, dark, sexy, and soothing. Check 'em out.

9. Akron/Family - Set 'Em Wild, Set 'Em Free

New discovery of the year. I'm growing tired of indie band trends such as Vampire Weekend or the Dirty Projectors. It just sounds like noise to me. A band like this, however, captures everything a good indie band should, and more. Give this album a try.

10. Wilco - Wilco (The Album)

Not their best effort, but still good enough. What a band this is. You know you're good when one of your lesser albums is still amongst the ten best of the year. Keep doing it guys.

11. Rodrigo y Gabriela - 11:11

What an energetic album this is. Simply two acoustic guitars banging away. Fantastic

12. Ben Harper and the Relentless 7 - White Lies for Dark Times

New band, same awesomeness. Saw them in concert, made the album better for me.

13. Dave Matthews Band - Big Whiskey and the Groogrux King

Just when I thought this band was done recording anything new and interesting, they bust out their best since Crash. I've even gone as far to argue that this album surpasses Crash on a lyrical level. Maybe they're not done

14. Doves - Kingdom of Rust

Never got quite as popular here in the states as Coldplay, The Verve, or Travis, but these guys are solid. This may be my favorite of theirs thus far.

15. Muse - The Resistance

Yes they sound like Thom Yorke of Radiohead replaced Freddie Mercury as the frontman of Queen, but hell, they sound awesome. Sometimes shamelessly referencing your influences is not a bad thing. Just ask Quentin Tarantino. Anyway, there are some weaknesses on this album, but the three track symphony to close the album is well worth it.

16. John Frusciante - The Empyrean

Guitarist of the Chili Peppers. As a solo artist, far more impressive than with the band. Very good album. Check him out.

17. Mos Def - The Ecstatic

Kind of disappointing given the brilliance of Black on Both Sides and The New Danger, but solid nonetheless.

18. Them Crooked Vultures - Self Titled

Nothing Uber special about this record. Just three great musicians teaming up for a solid hard rock album. I hope they continue to collaborate

19. Other Lives - Self Titled

These guys are just starting to get some press. Saw them at a bar in Denver and they are solid. The lack a driving lead instrument, but they write very good layered music with nuanced lyrics. Look forward to their next...

20. Monsters of Folk - Self Titled

Decent collaboration. Not a huge fan of M. Ward, but Jim James of My Morning Jacket and Conor Oberst do well together. Not groundbreaking, but an enjoyable listen.

Honorable Mentions

The Mars Volta - Octahedron
Conor Oberst and the Mystic Valley Band - Outer South

Biggest Disappointments

U2 - No Line on the Horizon
John Mayer - Battle Studies

Thanks for reading. Your thoughts.....

Memories of '09

2010-01-04T13:10:00.000-08:00

A couple of years ago I started blogging in the first week of the new year about the highlights of my previous year. Each time proved equally cathartic so I continue to look forward to this blog.

I was having one of my tougher life phases at the beginning of this year. I still remember a conversation I had with my Mom in January. It was short. All it consisted of was her hugging me closely and whispering in my ear "this is going to be a good year for you. I feel it." I didn't even thank her. I specifically remember saying "yeah, whatever," and walking to my car.

My mom proved yet again, she is always right...

January:

-Spent the new year in the pacific northwest for the third year in a row. this time I was there to celebrate Brad and Rachel's wedding. fun week.

February:

-Began my 3 month marathon training. Simply beginning was an awesome feeling.

March:

-An amazing European excursion with John. We hit all over England and ended in Paris. John and I annoyed the hell out of each other for 10 days, but I can only look back on it with fond memories. Thanks buddy.

-After years of deliberating, I finally decided to pursue a career in physical therapy. I sent my application in the morning we left for Europe.

April:

-not a great month, just a lot of long distant running and watching the Rockies lose

May: One of the most epic months of my life

-ran and completed my first marathon. finished in 3:36. it was one of the most beautiful experiences of my life

-2 days later, accepted an invitation to run with this cute girl from work

-2 days later, shared an epic first kiss with said girl

-2 days later, left for California where I set sail with the Riley family on a week long cruise up to British Columbia. Love you guys

-had several more dates with the cute girl, brought her to meet the family, and asked her to "go steady"

-took the cute girl to the Decemberists' concert in denver. awesome show, better company

June:

-spent an insane amount of time with Carrie

-Mile High Music Festival with Carrie and our friend Kuks. Highlight - Ben Harper and the Relentless 7

July:

-Kyle and Kelly came to visit, awesome weekend.

-Carrie told me she loved me

-I said it back

-didn't know it at the time, but I met my future in laws over the 4th. great weekend

-Wilco at Red Rocks- face meltingly unbelievable

August:

-After 2 long years, finally left my job at Alpine. Amazing feeling

-Spent a fun week in Hilton Head, SC, in a beach house with Carrie's family

-First Day of class at UCCS. Truly felt like a new phase of life

September:

-Readjusting to life as a student-got A's on all my first exams

-Another exciting September of Rockies baseball

October:

-took Carrie to her first Rockies playoff game. maybe next year

November:

-set a wedding date! one of those scary (in a good way) feelings. Strangely enough, while being a little scary, it was also one of the more comforting feelings I've ever had.

-Bobbie (carrie's mom) came for thanksgiving.

-Ray Lamontagne show with carrie in denver. awesome evening.

December:

-kicked ass and took some names during finals week

-my surprise birthday party which I accidentally found out about. thank you to everyone who came. Carrie is great

-a couple of days in breck with the family. great to be back up on the skiis and even better to just hang with the fam

-a month and a half after setting a date, officially proposed to carrie! it was a subtle yet beautiful evening. i'll never forget it. not a moment of it.

-christmas in texas with the future in laws. i am spoiled :)

-meeting Greg, Jen, and the twins for the first time. I am officially an uncle. I love it

-Seeing Les(my future father in law) in action coaching Texas Tech Basketball. Exciting game in Lubbock

2009 already goes down as a definitive year in my life. I look ahead with an optimism that was not present a year ago.

fanboys

2009-11-25T14:34:00.000-08:00

As the few of you who read this blog know, I never write about politics. I guess I shouldn't say never, one or two sarcastic political remarks may find there way in to a post from time to time. The main reasons that I don't are because I don't have many firm political opinions, and when push comes to shove, I don't care that much.

I'm registered independent, mainly because I've felt attacked by both sides at some point, and as an independent I don't have to answer as many heated questions. It's a cop out, I know, but I also may be more enlightened. I feel as though just about every political issue is a dense issue. It's all grey. I'd rather sift through the grey than try to find little black or white dots which are speckled throughout to hold dearly to.

Anyway, the main reason for this post is that I recently read something that got me thinking. In Colorado Springs there is a local publication known as the "Independent." It's free of charge, contains articles on local politics, and reviews of film, music, and local town hot spots.

Last week there was a quote that I can't get out of my mind. It was labeled "Quote of the Week." A local C Springs resident posted this on a news website comment section,

"I don't care if Sarah Palin isn't very smart, she'd still make a great president."

I couldn't get this quote out of my mind. My first instinct was to laugh. But it reminded me of fanboys for some reason.

Fanboys is a term usually reserved for film, comic books, and video games. For example, recently there are hoards of fanboys that worship at the Star Wars alter. Ten years ago, when Episode one was released, there was international pandemonium. People camped outside of theaters for weeks, months even, just to buy tickets for a two hour film. Fanboys declared this the best film of all time before they even saw it. These fanboys still call this film great ten years later, even when most of the film going public thought the film was sub par.

More recently, teenage girls are traveling in flocks and gaggles to see the new Twilight film. It made 140 million dollars at the box office last weekend alone even though it was universally reviled by critics. The kicker is, most women I've talked to admit that the Twilight films are crap. Poorly directed, written, and acted. The general idea I get from women I've worked with "I know the movie is terrible, but I still want to see it." They aren't even defending it, but still love it.

This is what I can't get out of my head when it comes to that quote about Sarah Palin. Have we become fanboys when it comes to politics? Have we already decided that whatever candidate that is in our party is awesome and whatever candidate is in the other party sucks ass? Is Sarah Palin the Republicans version of Twilight. "Ah, we know she's not that smart, but she's a great candidate." Is President Obama the Democrats version of Star wars Episode I? "I know he isn't the president yet, but he is going to be amazing, perhaps the best ever."

Even worse about these fanboys, they revile anyone who disagrees with them. They use words of such hatred for critics of their beloved films.

Reminds me of the constant status updates I see on facebook blasting those in public office. Jesus Christ, do fanboys have anything better to do? Fanboys are so lenient of the things they are fans of, and so quick to criticize rivals.

Have we become fanboys in politics?

Funny Bumper Stickers

2009-11-20T12:45:00.000-08:00

Just thinking about some of the funniest bumper stickers I've ever seen...

"Pave the Rainforest"

"In Case of Rapture, I'm taking your car"

"Republicans for Voldemort"

"Everything I need to know about life I've learned by reading banned books"

"Evolution is just a theory. kinda like gravity"

"Jesus loves you but everyone else thinks you're an asshole"

"Dog is my copilot"

"Honk if you're Amish"

"Heck is for people who don't believe in Gosh"

"If you're born again, do you have two belly buttons?"

"What if the hokey pokey is what its all about?"

"My kid is the proud parent of his teacher's baby"

"My child beat up your honor student"

any others? tell me what you think is funny

Friday afternoon Shout Outs

2009-11-20T12:27:00.000-08:00

Carrie Beth - they do in fact celebrate the 4th of July in Hawaii :)

Jim Tracy - You were definitely the manager of the year, do it again next season

Ray Lamontagne - For helping my girlfriend love me

"Bill" - for selling me concert tickets on craigs list and significantly lowering his price

Almonds - you add that extra bit of ooomph that my salad needs

Michael Scott - for valuing the feelings of his employees

Ricky Williams - for giving my fantasy football team an early lead last night

"nose scratching" - for being a believable excuse for "nose picking"

"based on a true story" sports movies - even the trailers make me cry

trampolines - how i miss thee

just a few for today

For my viewing pleasure

2009-11-14T21:56:00.000-08:00

Doing some brainstorming while laying here in bed. Decided to make a list before lights out. Here's a list of my all time favorite actors and actresses along with two or three of my favorite performances of theirs.

Ladies first...

1. Jodie Foster (Silence of the Lambs, The Accused, Contact)

2. Kate Winslet (Little Children, Eternal Sunshine..., Revolutionary Road)

3. Meryl Streep (Sophie's Choice, Doubt, The Deer Hunter)

4. Susan Sarandon (Dead Man Walking, Bull Durham, Thelma and Louise)

5. Laura Linney (The Truman Show, You Can Count on Me, Kinsey)

6. Elizabeth Taylor (Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?)

7. Dianne Wiest (Parenthood, Edward Scissorhands, The Birdcage)

8. Holly Hunter (Broadcast News, Thirteen, Raising Arizona)

9. Faye Dunaway (Network, Chinatown, Bonnie and Clyde)

10. Cate Blanchett (The Aviator, I'm Not There, Notes on a Scandal)

Actors

1. Paul Newman (The Hustler, Nobody's Fool, Hud)

2. Gene Hackmen (The Royal Tenenbaums, The French Connection, Unforgiven)

3. Daniel Day-Lewis (My Left Foot, There Will Be Blood, The Age of Innocence)

4. Marlon Brando (On the Waterfront, A Streetcar Named Desire, The Godfather)

5. Mel Gibson (Lethal Weapon, Braveheart, Maverick)

6. George C. Scott (Patton, The Hustler, Dr. Strangelove...)

7. Bill Murray (Ghostbusters, Lost in Translation, Caddyshack)

8. Michael Caine (Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, The Man Who Would Be King, Batman Begins)

9. Tom Hanks (Cast Away, Philadelphia, Big)

10. Dustin Hoffman (Midnight Cowboy, Wag the Dog, Tootsie)

Honorable Mention

Philip Seymour Hoffman (Capote, Synecdoche, New York, Before the Devil Knows You're Dead)

Just some that came to mine. Any comments?

Can I get some Thursday Love...

2009-10-22T11:33:00.001-07:00

Shoutin' out much love to...

Carrie Beth - making me crave salad

Broncos - for not realizing that they were supposed to suck big time

Half and Half - tasting like heaven from a cow

All other Dairy Products - for being totally worth the fat intake

Professor Koenig - Staying up until 5:30 am to have our exams graded. You'll definitely make this list again if you discover a way to simplify some of the multiple choice questions on the next test.

Meryl Streep - for fully capturing my attention with every performance

Zombies - for being utterly hilarious in spite of your horrible condition

People who don't forward silly emotional emails - Thanks for not giving me more trash to delete

People who forward hilarious emails - sometimes I need to laugh

Elvis Dumervil - for being the #1 fear of every quarterback in the NFL

Matches - for magically taking "stink" away

Highway 24 - for being the prettier way to get to the mountains from the "springs"

Fighter Jets - for being awesome, i wish you didn't have to drop bombs.

People who don't post their political opinions on their facebook status - I couldn't possibly care less what you think via the internet, especially if you don't have any advanced credentials or degrees on the subject

People who read this blog even though its a bit self indulgent - thanks

Couples who have blind dates in coffee shops - you don't think i'm eavesdropping, but I am

The movie "Up" - for being way more awesome than the "Balloon Boy" story

Carrie Beth - JIMMMAAAAYYYYY!

Shoutin' out on a Thursday morn...

2009-10-15T09:43:00.000-07:00

Carrie Beth - for braving the sub freezing temperatures and incredibly late gametime to enjoy a Rockies playoff experience with me

Huston Street - You were lights out all season. The best offense in the National League just proved you are human this week. Can't wait to see what you do next season.

Colorado Rockies - Giving me hope for next season

The Science and Learning Center - helping me figure out Coffee Cup Calorimetry

Owen Meany - for being hilarious so far. and despite your size, hitting the crap out of the baseball even though it had fatal results. Can't wait to see what happens with you.

Smiley's - for the amazing slice of heaven that you refer to as "toast."

The teenage girl who works the register at Smiley's - the restaurant must have been named after you. your braces filled smile brightens my already bright sunday mornings. if nobody ever invites you to the prom i will gladly escort you.

Bob the vendor - you're the only ballpark vendor i'd ever want to purchase beer or crackerjacks from. The rockies will win the big one for you someday.

Denver Broncos - 5-0 are you kidding me???!!!! I can't believe how great you've been to watch so far...

The NFL - for not letting Rush Limbaugh purchase the St. Louis Rams. As if they aren't already the laughing stock of the league

Jim and Pam - for making me actually appreciate tv show couples. I thought ross and rachel ruined it for me by being painfully annoying. but i actually kinda like you guys.

The Obama daughters - don't ever listen to the naysayers. Your daddy is a good man.

David Bazan - singing exactly what i'm feeling. i wish we could get a beer together.

Calvin - texting me some answers to our online Bio quiz. I'm still gonna get a better grade than you :)

Lewis Cash - I check your blog daily for updates.

Bobcats - for making landscaping a whole hell of a lot easier. I'm not too in to manual labor. I'm ok with machines doing the work for us, even if it does limit jobs.

The channel 5 news crew - for putting me on air last week!

Ruby - for continuing to improve in the frisbee realm. one day you'll catch 9 out of 10 in your mouth

Jessica - for making haircuts a pleasant experience.

Farts - for always being funny

Carrie Beth's chili - for being an utterly scrumptious experience.

3rd straight thursday morning shout out

2009-10-08T10:03:00.000-07:00

Carrie Beth - for your strength through adversity

My fantasy football team - for being undefeated after 4 weeks

The Minnesota Twins - Inspiring, truly inspiring

blenders - for so easily mixing tasty solid foods into delicious beverages.

Dwight Schrute - For your devotion to the harsh reality of the world, while embracing the fantasy world simultaneously

Dr. Dymek (my chem professor) - for being equal parts condescending and considerate. You're always good for a laugh

My calculator - for not making my brain work harder than necessary

Kristen - for putting up with the huge clumps of bullshit her coach continues to toss her way

South America - for hosting your first Olympics. Congrats!

Jumping Jacks - for giving incredible workouts even though you are a lost art

Josh McDaniels - For making it work so far

Kyle Orton - No interceptions through 4 games!!!!!

Jay Cutler - Who in the hell is Jay Cutler?

Serena Williams - posing nude on the cover of ESPN magazine. I'm equally repulsed and aroused

Carrie Beth - I dig on your smile

a few more thursday morning shout outs

2009-10-01T10:33:00.000-07:00

Carrie Beth - for being lovely

Chris Iannetta - For a potential season saving blast. Have you ever gazed into his eyes? Its like the first time I heard the Beatles.

Charles Darwin - For putting up with the shit you did and still publishing one of the most influential pieces of work in the last few centuries. Sorry your fish with feet keeps getting swallowed by Jesus fishes on the back of cars in colorado springs.

Drifters - For being as close to In n' Out as Colorado is likely to get.

Brandy - yes, yes, for reading the blog and continuing to be a welcome part of my life

Raider Haters - For being consistent in a world of inconsistency.

The Quadratic Formula - for being easier to remember than I thought you'd be.

Colorado Microbreweries - for your devotion to excellence and being seemingly everywhere.

Coors Commercials - for being far superior to budweiser commercials for the past few years.

John Irving - for making me want to read you even though I don't have time.

My bio lab partner - for doing most of the work monday while I zoned out.

Bio and Chem average exam scores - for making me feel smart

Graters Ice cream - for making sure there is more chocolate chunks and cookie dough per spoonful than any other ice cream company

Colorado Rockies - For still being in contention to win the West with only 4 games left.

Carrie Beth - for making me never want to be away from you.

thursday morning shout outs

2009-09-24T09:47:00.000-07:00

Carrie Beth - Your presence in my life gives me excitement and comfort.

John - Thanks for two fun, conversation and booze filled years. For your sake, I hope that whiny ass Prima donna Cutler is the answer.

Kristen - Your adventures abroad continue to inspire me. Don't marry a Danish unless he's sweet

Colorado Rockies - Thanks for giving me another tension filled September. Don't let me down or I may not recover

Jeff - We'll help each other recover if said team lets us down.

Alpine Autism Center - Thanks for paying me for over 2 years to get bit, sing silly songs, change diapers of thirteen year olds, have my farts blamed on autistic children, and teach helpful skills to those who cannot teach themselves. miss ya

Pearl Jam - for continuing to kick ass and take names

Les and Bobbie - inviting me to Hilton Head and caring for me when an when my throat threatened our relaxing time

Ruby - For making me feel loved. My car may never be rid of your hair. and also for guarding my precious Carrie Beth. You have my permission to bite anyone who looks suspicious. I'll be over shortly with a new supply of peanut butter

Matt - for your inspiration through further academic pursuit. one day the attorney at law and the dpt will get lunch in between clients.

The Periodic Table of Elements - for aiding me in finding the formula mass and balancing equations.

Dinger - for continuing to do your job to the best of your ability even though your everyone's least favorite mascot.

Todd Helton - For being Colorado's resident badass

Alec Baldwin - For tickling the world's funny bone

Severus Snape - For teaching me about redemption and showing that theres nothing wrong with having a sissy ass patronus

Old Worlde Bagels - for your continual commitment to one of america's most unhealthy breakfast foods.

Seth Smith - for being mr. late night!

Joe - for badass rhymes and unique beats across the social network

Kyle Orton - for taking it in stride

Bill and Deb - Selflessly refilling your almost empty nest

Agia Sofia's - bringing Gregorian Chant back. Its sexy

Carrie Beth - For smiling with your whole body

Jim Tracy - For being manager of the year!

Clint Hurdle - Miss ya and your witty sayings

grilled cheese sandwiches - for giving me pleasure and protein.

Lewish Cash - for always commenting on my blog even though I have no idea who in the hell you are

Coors Field - for being the home for hopes and dreams

a quick breather

2009-09-15T15:43:00.000-07:00

It's been a month and a half since my last post. Life's been busy. That's not too good of an excuse, after all, life is busy for everybody. That's finally true of me. For almost two years, life was only busy in small spurts. Most of the time I just worked 8-4 m-f, and just hung out with my remaining hours. I skied every saturday through the winter, and went to Rockies games in the summer. Read several books, watched several movies, mooched many a meal off of my parents, and figured out my favorite bars in town.

Now, I am a full time student again. Left my job a month ago and am now taking twelve credit hours at the University of Colorado in Colorado Springs. My goal is to gain admittance to physical therapy school. This semester, I'm taking Bio, Chem, and Algebra, along with the labs that go with those classes. Next year I'll have to take stats, physics, anatomy, and physiology. science and math have not been strong subjects for me for many years so I use as much spare time as possible to study.

I've got my first chem exam tomorrow and studying is proving to be a real bitch. I'm understanding most of it, but for the first time in my educational career my grades really mean something. I mean, I always wanted to do well, but hanging out with friends, farting around on the internet, or seeing a good film always took precedence over studying. Now, I need to ace most of these classes or it will all be for nothing. Talk about stress and pressure. But, I am finding ways to relax.

Anyway, on my short break from studying I thought I'd make a list. Here's a list of bands and artists whom I wish had a wider appeal. I really wish more people listened to these guys. I'll refrain from putting hot indie bands and artists that may not top the charts, but have definite huge underground followings such as Sufjan Stevens, Arcade Fire, TV on the Radio, Sigur Ros etc... This list is for bands that I'm not sure of anybody else that actually listens to them. I've found them on the internet or by accident. Let me know if you've heard of any of these guys and either like or dislike them.

Dungen: A Swedish band who's been around most of this decade. They do an odd combination of garage rock, psychedelic, and instrumental that is quite compelling. I own three of their albums and thoroughly enjoy all of them.

Hearts of Palm: Ok, this is my high school locker partner's band hailing from Denver. It's always awesome when your buddy is in a band and you don't have to lie about liking them. Two bad the members went their separate ways, because they were something special. Try and find 'em online.

Idaho: Part of the 90's slowcore genre. These guys are great. Very subtle, musically gifted, lyrically poignant, and just soothing. Check 'em out.

John Frusciante: Ok, he's a famous guitarist from the band Red Hot Chili Peppers, but I don't know anyone who owns his solo stuff. Its far more complex than the party style of the Chili Peppers. He's worth a listen. Sample him on itunes.

Lindsey Buckingham: Another very famous person because of his band, Fleetwood Mac, but no love for his solo career. He is amazing.

Other Lives: Andrew hooked me up with these guys because his cousin is in the band. Just dropped their first album this past spring. May not change your life, but it is worth a listen.

Red House Painters: An amazing amazing amazing band. They need to be bigger. Check out any of their albums, all are solid. Did most of their work in the 90's, a major player in that slowcore movement. Mark Kozelek, the man behind the band, is having some success with his new band, Sun Kil Moon. But they are nowhere near the same league as the Painters. Can't say enough about this band. Cameron Crowe loved 'em so much he cast Kozelek as the base player of Stillwater in Almost Famous. He's the one that starts singing in the infamous Tiny Dancer bus scene.

Spiritualized: All I've read about them leads me to believe that they are a lot bigger, but I've never heard anyone but John talk about them. Give them a listen.

let me know what you think...

Chia Obama

2009-07-27T15:54:00.001-07:00

Is this for real? I think it is...

Just saw a commercial for this on ESPN less than ten minutes ago. This is hilarious...

http://www.chiaobama.com/

1st halfsies - film

2009-07-08T15:34:00.000-07:00

Haven't seen too many movies yet this year. Here are my top 5 so far...

1. Up
2. Public Enemies
3. Two Lovers
4. Away We Go
5. (tie)/ I Love You Man / The Hangover

Movies I haven't seen yet that could have affected the list

Adventureland (Greg Mottola)
State of Play (Kevin MacDonald)
Sugar (Anna Bolden, Ryan Fleck)
Moon (Duncan Jones)
The Hurt Locker (Kathryn Bigelow)
Whatever Works (Woody Allen)

Film I'm looking forward to...

The Road (John Hillcoat)
Shutter Island (Martin Scorsese)
Funny People (Judd Apatow)
The Informant (Steven Soderbergh)
Inglorious Basterds (Quentin Tarantino)
Me and Orson Welles (Richard Linklater)
Avatar (James Cameron)
500 Days of Summer (Marc Webb)
The Lovely Bones (Peter Jackson)
Invictus (Clint Eastwood)
Nine (Rob Marshall)
Precious (Lee Daniels)
Green Zone (Paul Greengrass)
Where the Wild Things Are (Spike Jonze)
The Last Station (Michael Hoffman)
A Serious Man (Coen Brothers)
Brothers (Jim Sheridan)
Taking Woodstock (Ang Lee)
Up in the Air (Jason Reitman)
The Boat That Rocked (Richard Curtis)
Sherlock Holmes (Guy Ritchie)

Thats all for now. Let me know if I missed any

1st halfsies

2009-07-05T16:04:00.000-07:00

6 months of 2009 are history. 6 months to go. Here are my favorite albums of the first half of the year. The more I listen, they are subject to change.

1. Animal Collective - Merriweather Post Pavilion
2. Green Day - 21st Century Breakdown
3. The Decemberists - The Hazards of Love
4. Grizzly Bear - Veckatimest
5. Wilco - Wilco (The Album)
6. Doves - Kingdom of Rust
7. Mos Def - The Ecstatic
8. The Mars Volta - Octahedron
9. Conor Oberst and the Mystic Valley Band - Outer South
10. Dave Matthews Band - Big Whiskey and the Groogrux King
11. Other Lives - Other Lives
12. Ben Harper and the Relentless 7 - White Lies for Dark Times
13. U2 - No Line on the Horizon

Albums I'm looking forward to

The Dead Weather - Horehound (July 14)
The Roots - How I Got Over (August 11)
Third Eye Blind - Ursa Major (August 18)
Matisyahu - Light (August 25)
David Bazan - Curse Your Branches (September 1)
Muse - The Resistance (September 14)
Pearl Jam - Backspacer (September 22)

And any other unannounced albums that may drop in '09...

A Tribute to the King of Pop

2009-06-27T12:26:00.000-07:00

Here are my 15 favorite songs of his...

1. Billie Jean (Thriller)
2. Beat It (Thriller)
3. The Way You Make Me Feel (Bad)
4. Wanna Be Startin' Something (Thriller)
5. Don't Stop 'til You Get Enough (Off the Wall)
6. Thriller (Thriller)
7. Scream (HIStory)
8. Black or White (Dangerous)
9. Baby Be Mine (Thriller)
10. Man in the Mirror (Bad)
11. Dirty Diana (Bad)
12. Bad (Bad)
13. Smooth Criminal (Bad)
14. Working Day and Night (Off the Wall)
15. You Rock My World ( Invincible)

Several others coulda made it into 11-15, but these are the ones i'm feeling today. Rest in peace your majesty. We'll miss you.

Lunch Break Ramblings

2009-06-25T10:46:00.000-07:00

Today, while eating my two day old chicken breast, I was thinking about the lack of love that low market teams get in the news.

The Colorado Rockies just went on a streak in which they won 16 out of 17. This is virtually unheard of in baseball. Yet, the most recent ESPN power ranking has them at 15 in the league. I understand that they were unbelievably bad before the streak, but c'mon.

Between the Rockies and the Nuggets, Colorado gets no love from the media. The Nuggets were the number 2 team in the west for most of the season and didn't get much press until they took the Lakers to six games in the conference finals. Everybody knows who Andrew Bynum is, but not many could tell you who Nene Hilario is. The lack of coverage kinda pisses me off.

The Rockies rarely play on ESPN. Their games are only televised on the local stations. Yet teams like the Mets and Dodgers are frequently televised, even when they suck.

Anyway, I don't have too big of a point, just kinda Rambling before I have to go back to work.

My You Tube Debut

2009-06-14T08:33:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZDTpCymr0z4

This is me doing a little karaoke on a cruise ship. Enjoy...

Cast of Characters

Lauryn Hill - Catherine Riley

Wyclef Jean - BJ Karlik

Camerawoman & canned laughter - Glenda Riley

Oh, and by the way, if anyone knows how I can post this actual video and not just a link to the video on the blog let me know.

Proximity

2009-06-13T11:42:00.000-07:00

There is something unique about being close. Close physical and emotional proximity creates an exciting yet soothing feeling.

I enjoy sunshine. I enjoy the breeze. I enjoy being barefoot. I enjoy baseball. I enjoy the rain. I enjoy running. I enjoy gazing. I enjoy kissing. I enjoy walking. I enjoy talking. I enjoy listening. I enjoy laughing. I enjoy drinking.

These things I enjoy most with her...

Miles

2009-05-30T13:10:00.000-07:00

After months and months of mundane existence, this insanely busy spring came as a breath of fresh, but thick air. March consisted of a week and a half long trip to Europe, immediately followed by a four day trip to southern California. April consisted of baseball. Lots and lots of baseball. It was Jeff's senior season, so at least 3 days a week I illegally sped in my red Jetta from work to a ballgame. April also consisted of lots and lots of training. Marathon training. May continued the trend. I ran the Marathon on the third, which I'll later go into more detail about. The following week I left for Southern California to attend Catherine's graduation. The next day I joined the Riley family on a week long cruise up to British Columbia. Upon my return to Colorado, I've entered into a relationship which has been time consuming in a completely satisfying way. Needless to say, I've had little time to reflect.

With the obvious exception of a relationship, the marathon is far and away the most special thing I've needed to process. At the beginning of February I decided to officially begin training. My dream was to run a 3:10 time, which would qualify me for the prestigious Boston Marathon. The race in Ft. Collins, while being at a high elevation, is also mostly downhill. I thought it'd give me a decent shot at that goal.

I began training hard. The first day of training was a 10 mile run during a huge snowfall. I did not get too much advice beyond scattered conversations with runners on how to prepare, so I used a collection of these conversations to work out my own training regiment. Starting out with ten probably was not the wisest choice, but I thought I was in good enough shape. Every thursday was to be my interval day. This meant I had to run 4 6:30 miles, with 5 minute jogging breaks in between each mile. This proved tougher than I originally thought, but I stayed consistent. Every sunday was my long run day. The first sunday was a 14 mile run just hours before the Super Bowl.

About 4 weeks into training, the arch of my right foot started killing me. It became difficult to even run short distances on. It swelled up and turned blue. As luck would have it, I had some sort of inflammation which caused me to stay off of it for a few days. Being that 3 months is already a bit short to train for 26.2 miles, I was not too excited about this.

After staying off of it for a week or two, I started running again, but couldn't do much. Several different bugs started going around work and I got sick for a couple of weeks. This didn't stop me from running, but it stopped me from training the way I needed to.

Then came the European vacation. I didn't run for almost two weeks. I didn't rest my body properly and pretty much did everything wrong or half assed in my training. The whole time I was wondering if my foot would be ready to go on may 3rd. If it was, I was not too sure that my body could handle finishing a marathon, let alone doing it in a qualifying time.

I ran consistently in April with no pain in my foot. I decided that I'd be good to go. My final long run was 16 miles about 2 and a half weeks before the race. Everybody I talked to said that I needed to top out at around 20-22 miles about 4 or 5 weeks out. That never happened. My goal became simply to finish. I had ten more miles to go after the most I had ever run. I didn't know if my body could handle it.

May 3rd came and it came early. I awoke at 3:20 that morning. I ate a banana and some peanut butter toast. I trimmed my toenails as low as they would go, applied Vaseline and runner's glide to almost every inch of my body, put my clothes on and left Loveland, arriving at Ft. Collins at 4:30. I boarded a bus by myself and took a 45 minute ride up the mountain to the starting line. While on the bus, I downed several water bottles and ate a clif bar. Got to the top of the mountain, peeled of my sweats, stretched a bit and went to the starting line.

It was freezing that morning. It had to be in the 30's at 6 am. I could see my breath and my legs were frozen, being that my shorts were so short that my ass was literally hanging out. I knew I'd warm up once we started.

The course was beautiful. Quite possibly the most beautiful morning I've ever experienced. The race started and I ran with one thousand of my closest friends towards the finish. To get there we had to run down the canyon, along a the beautiful poudre river, towards the sunrise. It rose directly through the canyon as the mist and fog gently rested on the tree covered mountains. I was close to tears.

My legs felt fresh, my heart was excited, and I cruised. With all the water I drank, I had to pee at miles 5, 8, and 11. After that, my bladder was good until the end. I was amazed at how good I felt. Every few miles I took a drink of water or some of that Heed sport drink. I had an energy goo in my hand that was given to me, but I never used it.

At mile 18, I was still cruising. But then, I heard footsteps behind me and a voice firmly said "You better quit messin' around and start running!" I turned around to see a short, bald headed man with a grey moustache. "Sorry," I said, "I'm going at a steady pace." "Hey man, you're only young once, you need to run this thing." Turns out it was his 164th marathon and he was planning on running 300 before he kicks the bucket. He told me he once ran a 2:55 marathon on a saturday, and the very next day ran a 2:53 marathon. Badass is the only word to describe this man. After running together for about half a mile he said "get going," and I got going. It was inspiration I needed.

At about mile 19 I passed a girl who seemed to be a pretty badass runner. I was feeling good. I hadn't been passed yet, except while stopping for the bathroom. I hate being passed. Even on a saturday morning jog. I hate being passed. I know that while training I'm just supposed to practice a pace and not run against people, but I'm too competitive. I hate hate hate being passed. That's how I run races. I don't let people passe me. It helps that I usually start in the back and all the people faster than me are in the front, but still, I don't like being passed. At about mile 22, this girl that I thought was in my dust, passes me. I was furious, but I was starting to feel a lack of strength in my legs. I knew it would take all of my energy to keep up with her and I couldn't keep that pace for the last 4 miles. It didn't help that it was a girl. I try to be forward thinking about women and their abilities, but I still hate being inferior in any way athletic to a girl.

I kept her in my sight for the last few miles as my body began to break down. I never got to a point of misery, but I was ready for the race to be over at about mile 23. She kept going further, and further ahead of me. She got to about 50 or 60 yards ahead of me and I thought, my only remaining goal is to pass this woman before the finish line. With a half mile left I turned it on. I ran as hard as my body would take me. With about 200 yards remaining, I passed her! She ate my dust for the final remaining distance. She'll never know that I was so intent on beating her, but it helped me finish.

As I crossed the finish line to the cheers of hundreds, my eyes wandered to the time clock and with amazement I saw the number 3:38:36. I had no idea how long it took me. I thought it could've been over 4 hours seeing as I only trained for about 2 months altogether. My final time ended up being 3:36:42 which I was extremely proud of. It was one of the greatest experiences of my life and I look forward to doing another. I only have 26 minutes to shave from my time. That's a full minute per mile, which is a bit daunting, but now I know what to expect.

The experience was beautiful. My only regret is that I was alone. I had nobody to share the glory with. Nobody to celebrate with. Nobody there to encourage me. Running 26.2 by oneself is lonely enough. Having nobody there at the finish line was far worse. I think it was good though. There is something about adventure alone. Accomplishing something by oneself. There was a freedom amongst the loneliness.

A Few Recommendations

2009-04-05T14:00:00.000-07:00

A few months ago, a fellow blogger posted a little known film that moved him deeply. It got me thinking, there are several films out there that have gotten little to no love from the critical world, awards network, or general public that I feel deserve a fair shot. As a Sunday afternoon exercise, I thought I'd post a few of them. My rules are simple but not iron clad. They have to be film's that few people that I know have seen or heard of. They can't have been overly recognized by the academy, the golden globes, or other ridiculous awards committees. Notice, I used the word "overly." My hope with this post is that a few more people will see a few more films that I believe are strong. Here's a list in no particular order.

The Sweet Hereafter (1997):

I know I know. The first thing you may say is that this film had two oscar nominations. Well, my rules are more like guidelines. I don't know one person whose seen this film. I've never been able to discuss it with anyone. I rarely see any film critics referencing it in their blogs. This is a beautiful, tough, and emotionally draining film. I truly had no clue what it was about when I watched it. I encourage you to do the same.

Breach (2007):

This film opened to good reviews and I went and saw it with my dad. He's the only person I've ever heard mention it. Critics seemed to enjoy it but it got no awards recognition and bombed at the box office. Chris Cooper gives a subtle yet dynamic performance. Ryan Phillipe shows that what he lacks in range he makes up for in film selection. I'm not a huge fan of him as an actor, but he chooses good film to associate himself with, with only a few exceptions.

Elephant (2003):

A few very good reviews and a good showing at the Cannes Film Festival, yet not many have seen it. My jaw was close to the floor when it was over. Gus Van Sant knows what the hell he's doing.

Green Street Hooligans (2005):

This film is virtually unnoticed by anyone. I told a few soccer players I know about it and they loved it. Yeah, the fight club inspiration is evident, but this is a strong dramatic feature showing that Elijah Wood can play more than effeminate mythological characters or Huck Finn.

Menace II Society (1993):

A film with several similarities to Boyz n tha Hood but strong none the less. Very tough film but worth the effort.

Rescue Dawn (2006):

Christian Bale stars in this Werner Herzog true story about a pilot shot down in Laos. Herzog directed a documentary about this guy ten years before and thought his story needed to be told in a feature. Solid film.

Shattered Glass (2003):

While incredibly wooden in the Star Wars prequels, Hayden Christensen gives a compelling performance about a journalist who fabricated several stories. True story.

Slacker (1991):

Very influential independent film, yet nobody I know has seen it.

Sunshine (2007):

Danny Boyle's directorial predecessor to Slumdog Millionaire. The ending shows a small lack of focus, but the overall film is a thought provoking sci fi thriller.

Synechdoche, New York (2008):

One of the few films I've seen in which its weaknesses also function as strengths. An imperfect film, but something told me I had just watched something special. Philip Seymour Hoffman is marvelous.

The Way of the Gun (2000):

The writer of the Usual Suspects directorial debut. A few friends in high school were all Usual suspects fanatics, so we rented this one and had a party. I've not met anyone who has seen it since. A modern day western. Like all good westerns, this is a moral tale that disguises itself as action.

Without Limits (1998):

Ok, this film is special because I love to run. This is the Steve Prefontaine film. It didn't even gross 1 million at the box office. It deserves to be seen.

Broken Flowers (2005):

Not a great film, but an interesting Bill Murray performance.

Dancer in the Dark (2000):

Not only does Bjork have an amazing voice, but she can act. This is an emotionally draining film.

Hard Candy (2005):

One of the creepier movies I've ever seen. Ellen Page showed a few years before Juno how well she really can act.

Harsh Times (2005):

Worth it simply for Christian Bale's performance. It is a little derivative of Training Day, same screenwriter, but Bale gives a hell of a performance.

Igby Goes Down (2002):

The Culkin kids can act. This film owes something to Catcher in the Rye. It's the closest thing to Salinger's novel that we are likely to see on screen, seeing as Salinger signed some sort of contract stating that CITR would never be made into a film.

Kalifornia (1993):

Brad Pitt's creepiest performance. An interesting study of American violence.

Millions (2005):

Another Danny Boyle film that needs to be seen. This film transcends any sort of label somebody could place on it.

The Proposition (2005):

If you like westerns, here is a solid one.

Year of the Dog (2007):

Not a huge fan of Molly Shannon the comedian. I thought most of her SNL characters like Mary Catherine Gallagher, the licensed joyologist, and others were annoying. However, she does have dramatic acting skills. She is truly wonderful in this film that deserves to be seen.

Hopefully this will inspire some viewing. Leave me comments if you've seen any of these or if there are ones that I missed.

Nomadic Identity Crisis

2009-03-26T13:14:00.000-07:00

Two weeks rarely pass with the haste of these past two. March 16 I found myself in Camden, the live music and punk rock London neighborhood. March 21st I awoke in Monmarte, a popular destination for writers and artists. March 24th a 747 brought me in to Denver International airport. March 25th I walked from Los Angeles International airport to my Uncle's apartment which sits 1 block away from the Pacific.

Seemingly, I could count myself fortunate. London, Paris, Colorado, Manhattan Beach are all places that legions of people spend insane amounts of money to visit. At 26, I'm hitting all of those places in 2 weeks.

Running south on the beach this breezy morning it occurred to me how vastly different the culture of each of these places are. London has a New York City feel to it. Extremely fast paced, everyone dressed to the nines in suits or the latest trendy metro sexual fad, stern looks on their faces, polite but unfriendly demeanor. Paris had couples everywhere. It really is the city of love. Very trendy like London, but a bit more laid back. Everything was expensive, even average tasting meals and wine. The people were more friendly than in London. Manhattan Beach is an 180 degree difference, assuming the scale is a wealthy scale. Everyone is adorned in trendy beach wear. The girls in matching jogging suits, beach skirts, or bathing suits. They are all wearing similar big lens sunglasses. The dudes are all in surf gear, tshirts, sunglasses, and flip flops.

All three of these cultures are trendy in different ways. It must be expensive to keep up the trends. I know this sounds like criticism, and maybe it is, but it is merely an observation. And who am I to judge? My clothing style has adapted to whatever culture I find myself in. One thing that I am realizing is that I don't tend to identify with this kind of wealth. My dad did work in the oil industry for my whole life and I've always had everything I've needed. I did go to a private university and have vacationed in warm climates. Still, my family seemed to live a bit more of a meager lifestyle. My dad was raised in a blue collar family and my mom was raised on a teacher's salary. I identify much better with that culture. The middle class.

I sure as hell don't identify with the poor, as much as my idealistic college self would like to believe I did. I enjoy doing expensive things. Skiing, traveling, drinking wine, going to ballgames are all things that cost money. I enjoy clean bathrooms with nice soaps. I'd gladly pay over 100 bucks for Radiohead tickets. I can't wait to buy new skis even though mine are in fine condition. I'd rather go to Rico's and pay at least a dollar fifty more for coffee than at Pike's Perk or Starbucks because I like the ambiance and the coffee tastes better. I'd never go to a fast food restaurant because of a cheap value menu.

Maybe I understand the colorado springs briargate culture because thats where I became an adult. Thats how I hope to live. I don't need a big house, but I'd like a decent sized one. I'd like my kids to have their own rooms. I'd like to be able to pick up the check most of the time without being stressed about my budget. I don't need a top of the line car, but I'd rather own one thats close to being new.

I use to think it was wrong to desire these things, but I'm starting to think that critics of those desires can piss off. Most agree that we need to have a certain amount of money to survive. The gray area is "how much is too much." Is there too much? John and I had this conversation in England. Some would say middle class is too much. Some would say upper class is too much. Who is right?

Western European Observation

2009-03-22T03:20:00.000-07:00

It's nice not to be carded upon the purchase of alcohol

Notre Dame is far too touristy to seem special on a saturday

baked beans are a wonderful breakfast side dish

I smile and nod more than a bobble head doll when I don't speak the language

Many sights, many nights, just enough sleep

2009-03-21T10:43:00.000-07:00

This is the first full day in Paris. A few thoughts so far...

In London, the rumour about fish n chips is true. They do not disappoint.

The pubs are truly magnificent.

London is strikingly similar to New York, or vice versa

Thus far, the stigma of French rudeness is completely false.

Public transportation kicks all sorts of monumental ass.

I'm older than most hostel dwellers

I can easily run ten miles, but walking all day beats the hell out of my feet

The dollar is getting better, but it still sucks balls.

I won't be cool until I get a scarf, ripped jeans, a blazer, and chuck taylor converse

I should have studied abroad in Oxford

Cafe's and pubs are far superior to chains any day of the mutha sucking week!

1st Day

2009-03-16T08:43:00.000-07:00

It's 3:30 in the afternoon in London on Monday. I've not slept since Saturday evening. I've already seen Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Hyde Park, The Princess Diana memorial, and toured Westminster Abbey. I'm pooped. However, I'm excited about this evening's festivities.

Happy St. Patrick's Day tomorrow.

On Adventure's Morning

2009-03-15T07:17:00.000-07:00

In only 3 and a half short hours, I'll be boarding a plane en route to Washington DC. Later on this evening, I'll fly across the pond, arriving in London tomorrow morning. It's always tough to focus when filled with anticipation.

This is my second European adventure. The first was an excursion to Germany and Austria over two years ago. Much has changed in life since then. Relationally, professionally, personally, everything is different. I think my expectations are different this time. Chief of which being a lack of specific expectations.

We'll see. I'll do my best to update from hostels over the next 9 days.

Film '08 Volume II

2009-03-07T17:44:00.000-08:00

It's impossible to do a year in film justice without mentioning acting performances. I'd like to use this post as an ode to the most memorable performances for me. First, I'm going to do something I've not done before.

Certain scenes from movies sometimes leave more of an impression than the overall film. "Dude, remember when they hide the gun in the bathroom at the restaurant, Pacino goes in and gets it, then comes out and wastes 'em? That was awesome." Or, "I loved it when Spacey walks out of the police station and his limp goes away!" Or, "That was classic when Wayne and Garth sing Bohemian Rhapsody in the Merth Mobile!" People remember sequences. Here is the list of the most memorable sequences for me this year. I'll do my best to not put more than one or two per film.

1. "I'd like to phone a friend" Slumdog Millionaire

2. The opening burglary - The Dark Knight

3. Interrogating the Joker - The Dark Knight

4. Performing Dracula's Lament - Forgetting Sarah Marshall

5. Playing the djembe in the subway - The Visitor

6. Dancing in outer space - WALL*E

7. The diner scene - Pineapple Express

8. The chase through the Mumbai slums - Slumdog Millionaire

9. The final match - The Wrestler

10. Late night phone call - Frost/Nixon

11. Blackmail over the phone - Burn After Reading

12. Ray breaks down - In Bruges

13. The Barbershop - Gran Torino

14. Coming out to Dad - Milk

15. "I'm a broken down piece of meat" - The Wrestler

16. "There is no exit" - W.

17. "Can't smile without you" duet - Hellboy II

18. Prison confrontation - The Visitor

19. "I don't love you" - Revolutionary Road

20. "I am Iron Man" - Iron Man

Here are my favorite performances

Sadly, I've not seen many of the films featuring solid female performances. Maybe that's my fault, or maybe studios are guilty of not offering as many interesting roles for women to play.

Female:

1. Kate Winslet - Revolutionary Road
2. Marisa Tomei - The Wrestler
3. Penelope Cruz - Vicky Cristina Barcelona
4. Melissa Leo - Frozen River
5. Taraji P. Henson - The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
6. Angelina Jolie - Changeling
7. Hiam Abbass - The Visitor
8. Frances McDormand - Burn After Reading
9. Emily Mortimer - Transsiberian
10. Cate Blanchett - The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Male:

1. Heath Ledger - The Dark Knight
2. Mickey Rourke - The Wrestler
3. Richard Jenkins - The Visitor
4. Sean Penn - Milk
5. Colin Farrell - In Bruges
6. James Franco - Pineapple Express
7. Josh Brolin - Milk
8. Frank Langella - Frost/Nixon
9. Robert Downey Jr. - Tropic Thunder
10. Leonardo Dicaprio - Revolutionary Road
11. Brad Pitt - Burn After Reading
12. James Franco - Milk
13. Brendan Gleeson - In Bruges
14. Michael Sheen - Frost/Nixon
15. Dev Patel - Slumdog Millionaire
16. Robert Downey Jr. - Iron Man
17. Tom Cruise - Tropic Thunder
18. Ralph Fiennes - In Bruges
19. Russell Brand - Forgetting Sarah Marshall
20. Michael Shannon - Revolutionary Road

Thanks for reading. Let me know what you think...

Film '08

2009-02-27T20:03:00.000-08:00

Most of my buddies that blog already put out their "best of '08" lists. I realize that I am quite behind with my film list. The reason behind this is simple. I wanted to see as many films as possible before making the final list. I've finally come to a realization that there are many films that I won't see for a while for a few reasons. The first is that I live in Colorado Springs, so specific art house films won't be coming to my town. I'll have to await their arrival on blu-ray. Another is that film is something I enjoy, but not a high priority. I'll rarely make a sacrifice to see a film, but I will sacrifice watching a film for a variety of reasons.

That said, I've decided to do this year's list a bit differently. I was inspired by Roger Ebert's decision to organize his list alphabetically because he could not decide which films were best. He simply enjoyed all of his favorites. I've taken a cue from Netflix and decided to arrange my list based on the way I rated each film on my Netflix account. On this wonderful site, the viewer gives each film a star rating, 1 being the lowest and 5 the highest. Netflix defines the star system this way; 5-loved it, 4-really liked it, 3-liked it, 2-didn't like it, 1-hated it. This year, I'll group my list together based on my Netflix Ratings.

First, a few observations. I am slowly getting better at selecting the films to which I give my time. I saw 39 films released in 2008 and only 5 fell below the 3 star rating. Only 1 received a 1 star rating. Each of these 5 films I really looked forward to as well. I wasn't forced to watch a piece of shit like Sex and the City. Each film on this list, I had a desire to see. Another observation is that of these 39 films, only 3 received a 5 star rating. Most received 3 or 4. The line between a 4 and 5 star film is sometimes thin. I may respect a 4 star film as much as a 5 star film, but the 5 star has to bring me to an emotional level that the 4 does not reach. Often, it does so by surprise. So here they are, from 1 to 5.

1 Star

Appaloosa - Had potential, which is why its suckiness was so disappointing. I hated this film.

2 Star

Be Kind Rewind
Choke
Smart People
Vicky Cristina Barcelona

3 Star

Australia
Body of Lies
Chronicles of Narnia - Prince Caspian
Frozen River
Hellboy II - The Golden Army
Indiana Jones and the Kingdome of Crystal Skull
Kung Fu Panda
Nick and Nora's Infinite Playlist
Paranoid Park
Quantum of Solace
Redbelt
Traitor
Transsiberian
Tropic Thunder
W.
Wanted
Zack and Miri Make a Porno

4 Star

Burn After Reading
Changeling
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Encounters at the End of the World
Forgetting Sarah Marshall
Frost/Nixon
Gran Torino
In Bruges
Iron Man
Milk
Pineapple Express
Revolutionary Road
Wall*E
The Wrestler

5 Star

The Dark Knight
Slumdog Millionaire
The Visitor

Films I haven't seen that will impact the list:

Man on Wire
Synechdoche, New York
Rachel Getting Married
Let the Right One In
Miracle at St. Anna
Elegy
Doubt
Blindness
Che
Defiance
Gomorra
The Class
Tell No One
The Hurt Locker
The Reader
Valkyrie
Wendy and Lucy

I anxiously await your comments and criticism. My next blog will address my favorite scenes of the year. Thank you for reading

Excitement of a child

2009-01-25T15:19:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning was full of hidden giddiness. My brother and I attended Rockies Fest at Coors Field for a few ours. I had the privilege of touring the clubhouse and dugout. I couldn't believe it. There I stood, in a major league dugout. The same dugout which has housed the likes of Todd Helton, Larry Walker, Jim Leyland, Don Baylor, and because of the all star game in '98...Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, Greg Maddux, and many others. I got the autograph of Rockie fan favorite Ryan Spillborghs as well as a host of minor league players, all of whom I am older than. I sat in on a panel discussion with all of the coaches, Clint Hurdle, Jim Tracy, Don Baylor, and Glenallen Hill, just to name a few. Needless to say, it was exciting. I don't know why grown men get excited about such things, but I'm content to be carried away by it.

In other news, I decided that I am running a marathon this spring. My goal is to qualify for Boston and run it in 2010. I realize that that is a lofty goal, but the great ones all had lofty goals. Hopefully I will join the ranks of greatness in some area of my life. That may be a lofty goal itself. The qualifying time for the Boston marathon in my age group is 3:10. I cannot foresee myself actually running that time, but stranger things have happened. The training regiment begins tomorrow. Anyone interested in training with Me?

Albums of '08

2009-01-11T08:30:00.000-08:00

This past year was a decent one for music. Several bands and artists I avidly listen to came out with albums. Some good, some disappointing. This year I wasn't able to come up with a list ranking the order of albums I like. I mean, how do you separate 3 from 4, or 9 from 10. It all depends on how I feel the day I write. Newer albums are fresher in my mind than ones I bought last March. So I decided to break it up into three categories; The Upper Echelon, Very Good, Halfway Decent.

The Upper Echelon (in no particular order):

Bon Iver - For Emma, Forever Ago

Stunning debut. The singer/songwriter on an acoustic guitar thing got old a long time ago, but every once in a while something special comes along. This is one of those albums

Devotchka - A Mad and Faithful Telling

Hailing from Colorado, this band was made famous on the Little Miss Sunshine soundtrack. Their new album is full of energy. Really enjoyed it.

Gnarls Barkley - The Odd Couple

There's no single as catchy as Crazy on this album, but overall it is a stronger album than its predecessor.

Sigur Ros - Með suð í eyrum við spilum endalaust

Of their 4 albums this one is my least favorite. It is the first that failed to carry me away to another realm That said, it's still a damn fine album with a few of their catchiest songs yet.

Very Good (in no particular order):

The Black Keys - Attack and Release

These guys are full of energy and it is evident on this album

Coldplay - Viva La Vida or Death and All of His Friends

The heart is back! After the passionless album that was X and Y, Coldplay rediscovered their heart. If not for a couple of boring songs in the middle of the album, this could have been something great.

Conor Oberst - Conor Oberst

This guy improves with every album. He's realizing that pretentious lyrics are not the only thing that make for good music. I enjoyed this departure.

Dungen - 4

Why am I the only person that listens to these guys. They are fantastic. Check 'em out.

Hearts of Palm - The Bridge EP

The lead singer was my locker partner in high school. I attend almost every show I can that this band plays in Denver. They are something special, and I hope they can survive their recent losses with a change of lineup.

Jack Johnson - Sleep Through The Static

He is developing as well. Just another solid album from this guy.

Kanye West - 808s and Heartbreak

Man, I'm glad I gave this one a second chance. Hated it when I first listened to the 30 second itunes clips. Glad I decided to buy it anyway. Kanye is good when he drops the stupid skits on the albums and does something serious. Maybe the theme of this album is really close to my heart as well right now. Thank you Kanye

Lindsey Buckingham - Gift of Screws

He is fantastic. He was the true brains behind Fleetwood Mac. Listen to this album

Mogwai - The Hawk is Howling

I enjoy everything these guys do. Nothing earth shattering on this album, simply very good.

My Morning Jacket - Evil Urges

After the miracle that was "Z", this album was a bit disappointing. Still good though.

The Raconteurs - Consolers of the Lonely

This is a massive improvement on their debut album. Jack White is one of the best musicians in rock and roll right now.

The Roots - Rising Down

Doesn't match the brilliance of their best albums, but better than any other hip hop album I heard this year.

Spiritualized - Songs in A and E

Thanks to John for turning me on to these guys. I wish more people new about 'em. They are special.

Sun Kil Moon - April

Best discovery this year. Not necessarily for this particular album, which is still solid. But for Mark Kozelek, the brains behind this band and another band called Red House Painters who are a new favorite. He also played the bass player in Almost Famous. Check his bands out.

TV on the Radio - Dear Science,

These guys are an acquired taste. I'm glad I kept tasting. I'm digging this album.

The Verve - Fourth

Biggest surprise of the year. Their first album in ten years and it does not disappoint.

Halfway Decent (no particular order):

Beck - Modern Guilt

Very rarely do I love a song by Beck, but very rarely do I dislike one. Almost every song he's ever recorded I've liked on some level. With the exception of the album Sea Change, his work simply never brings me to that other level.

Death Cab For Cutie - Narrow Stairs

Good album. Nothing special.

The Mars Volta - The Bedlam in Goliath

The weakest album in their catalog, but there is still enough good stuff to warrant the purchase

Unwed Sailor - Little Wars

A recent discovery. I like these guys, but other bands do post rock better.

Weezer - Weezer (Red Album)

A couple of great songs on this album. Just too many forgettable ones. Too bad, it could have been something.

Most Disappointing Albums this year

Common - Universal Mind Control

Club Music?!?!?!?!?! Sometimes change is good. This wasn't.

One Day as a Lion - One Day as a Lion

We've been waiting for Zach de la Rocha's solo album for almost a decade and this is what he gives us. With the success of Audioslave, makes you wonder if the rest of the guys were the true brains behind Rage Against the Machine.

Favorite Songs of the year.

I won't rank these in order either. I'll try to limit it to one per band.

Beck - Gamma Ray
The Black Keys - Strange Times
Bon Iver - Flume
Coldplay - Death and All of His Friends
Devotchka - Along the Way
Gnarls Barkley - Who's Gonna Save My Soul?
Jack Johnson - Angel
Kanye West - Say You Will
Lindsey Buckingham - Time Precious Time
Mogwai - Batcat
My Morning Jacket - Highly Suspicious
The Raconteurs - Consoler of the Lonely
The Roots - Rising Down
Sigur Ros - Gobbledigook
Spiritualized - Sweet Talk
Sun Kil Moon - Lost Verses
TV on the Radio - Crying
Weezer - The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived

Albums I'm looking forward to this year

Mos Def
Bon Iver
John Frusciante
U2
The Decemberists
David Bazan
Michael Jackson (rumors)
Matisyahu
Green Day
Muse
Wilco
Amy Winehouse

That's about it. Thanks for reading.

Reflection on 2008

2009-01-05T19:30:00.000-08:00

Often life seems dull, slow moving and sad. Reflecting on an entire year and the experiences which occurred make it tough to feel that way. Here are the highlights.

January:

New Years Day and a few after in Portland with David, Hannah, and the Marrs family. I also met Rachel, Brad's wife as of this past Saturday, for the first time. The second straight New Years Day spent in Portland.

Displayed and act of courage with a woman in a public place.

February:

A night spent in Vail with a friend and a couple of strangers which led to 2 fantastic days on the mountain.

March:

Two nights in Keystone with DJ. Two great days on the mountain.

See Explosions in the Sky by myself at the Ogden in Denver. Beautifully moving experience.

April:

Opening day at Coors Field. The defending National League Champs embarked on a title defending year. They lost. Foreshadowing?

Ran my first 5k. The Alpine Autism Center Autism Awareness 5k to be exact. I won. I won a gift certificate to Marigold's for a pizza which expires next month. Anybody want to go?

Ran the Ft. Collins 10k with Matt and Emily. To my surprise, I finished 4th out of 450 people with a time of 36:57, pace of 5:57 minute miles. My love for running increases dramatically.

May:

Ran the Boulder Boulder 10k with Rachel. Had a blast. My time was a bit humbling. I was a bit arrogant after the ft collins race.

Saw Wilco at the Pikes Peak Center with my brothers, roommate, and some other friends. Fantastic show.

July:

Took my first paid vacation week ever. Went to Portland for 10 days to witness my close friends David and Hannah wed. It was a week for the ages.

Bought my first road bicycle. My first triathlon will happen this year.

August:

LOLLAPALOOZA! John and I spent 3 nights in Chicago seeing the likes of Radiohead, Rage Against the Machine, Kanye West, Gnarls Barkley, Explosions in the Sky, Iron and Wine, Broken Social Scene, and many others. Fantastic Weekend.

Bit my lip and wrote and email that was a long time coming.

Played in an all star baseball game at Sky Sox Stadium (the Rockies' triple A ballclub) complete with my picture and stats on the jumbo screen. Threw a guy out at third from right field and hit one out. Too bad it was 20 feet foul. It would have been the only home run of the game and the first home run I ever hit.

September:

Bronco game with Nate, complete with tailgating.

Sigur Ros at Red Rocks, complete with tailgaiting. Not a performance as much as an experience. Thanks fellas.

October:

Fun wedding reception with my family. Thank you Bradley family.

Bitterly cold camping adventure with Andrew. Thanks Pal

November:

A great reunion, evening, and conversation with an important person.

Being a part of something special on the evening of November 4th.

Another successful Gravy Bowl football game Thanksgiving morning. The most competitive one to date. Wait 'til next year.

December:

The Budweiser company Christmas party. Thanks Karen.

A great first season ski trip with Matt and Emily.

Observing my beautiful family handling a crisis on Christmas day.

Mike's bachelor party and ill-advised ski trip. Oodles of fun.

The coldest Bronco home game in history with Joe and Jeff.

A beautiful bike ride through Garden of the Gods. My ass still hurts Jason.

The most beautiful, heart wrenching, life affirming, poetic night of my young life.

Ending the year once again in Portland.

I look forward to 2009 with a restless yet optimistic perspective.

Lollapalooza '08

2008-08-31T15:41:00.000-07:00

Without a doubt, the chance to attend such a glorious occasion is something that only comes around once or twice in a lifetime if you do not live within the Chicago city limits. This was my first concert festival and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment. The weekend was filled to the brim with pizza, walking, beer, sweat, standing around, noise, art, wine, random connections, being shirtless, and of course...rapturous energy from a plethora of musical acts.

Thursday, July 31:

After a long day of work I return home with my bags fully packed. I change into shorts and a tshirt, meet up with John, load my bags into my dad's truck and we are off to the airport to catch our 7 pm flight to Chicago. The excitement quickly turns to sheer terror when upon our arrival to Denver International Airport we are informed that our flight is canceled and there is no other way to get to Chicago that evening. Dread fills our minds as the expensive concert we are attending begins promptly at 11 am the following day. Many phone calls and online encounters later we finally land ourselves on a 6 am flight out of Colorado Springs.

Friday, August 1st:

My alarm begins playing sounds from the ocean promptly at 3:45. I jump in the shower, throw on my cloths from the previous day, we hop in the car and head for my parents house. My dad, being the saint that he is, agrees to drive us to the Springs airport at 4:30 in the AM. Not too much ruckus presents itself at the airport and we safely board the early flight to the Windy City.

Our flight lands around 10ish in Chicago. Armed with only or small carry on luggage, we deplane and head towards the Hertz rent a car location. With exhaustion in our bodies but excitement in our hearts, we drive away from O'Hare International Airport. Already we had decided that no bands that we had any desire to see were going on until after 3.

With time on our hands and adventure at our fingertips we decide to drive past Wrigley Field. I despise the Cubs with the fire of a thousand suns but have great respect for the Field's place in history. It was quite a site to drive past. John then decided that I should have my first true Chicago style pizza experience. We met Brandy and Joanie who were roadtripping from the east coast to SoCal at Giordano's. It was a fun beginning to the trip

Finally we arrive at Grant Park just in time for the Black Keys to take the stage. The twosome from Akron, Ohio did a fine job. It was hard to get excited because I'm only familiar with their most recent album, but I enjoyed the few songs we stayed for nonetheless.

We then took a couple of hours off to simply sit down in the shade with a brew. The early morning flight, pizza and sun definitely was catching up to us. Around 6 we headed back to the stage just in time to see the Raconteurs go on. These guys exhibited a great deal of energy. I expected nothing less from Jack White and crew. My only regret is that we were only able to stay for about half the show. Radiohead played at 8 on the opposite end of the park and we wanted to get there early for a good spot in the grass.

Promptly at 8 pm, the reason we bought the tickets in the first place took the stage. Anticipation had been building up for the past few months. For years I've wanted to experience Radiohead live and it was about to happen. They played for two solid hours, hitting songs from every album except for Pablo Honey. It was enjoyable, but it would be nice to see a more intimate show where they headlined. Seeing a band in this setting was fun, but the view is terrible. Hopefully they'll hit Denver soon.

Saturday, August 2:

After a filling gyro in Greek Town, we headed over to the park. We arrived around 3ish, just in time to see DeVotcKa take the stage. This was one of the best shows we saw. Surprisingly, the band from Denver was incredible live. The sound was great and their showmanship was unmatched. Being that they were at a smaller stage that was on a slant, it was not too crowded and easy to enjoy.

Next we witnessed Explosions In The Sky. I saw these guys in Denver back in March and was excited to see 'em again. Sadly, while playing well, they suffered from what most other Lollapalooza bands suffered from. Shuffle in the crowd, lack of excitement, and competing bands on other stages. I enjoyed them but the intimate setting of the Ogden in Denver was a far superior experience.

Next we hit Jamie Lidell. Neither of us had ever heard him but his bio was intriguing. It was a forgettable experience and we left after 2 songs.

At 6:30 Broken Social Scene took the stage. These guys were far from perfect, but pretty impressive. They put on a pretty decent show.

John and I then separated. Wilco and Rage were scheduled to play on opposite stages. John decided that he could not live with himself if he passed up a chance to see Wilco in their hometown of Chicago, while I decided that a band like Rage who's been on hiatus for 8 years, would not be a wise band to pass up. John stayed put and I headed to the other stage for what would end up being the best show of the weekend.

People were more excited for Zack, Tom and crew than any other act that weekend. The event began with me arriving to the stage about an hour early and pushing my way as far forward as possible. I finally settled on a spot in the middle about 50 yard from the stage. This was relatively close compared to where some would have to stand. The next thing that happened was quite odd. First of all, where I was standing was nowhere near a bathroom of any kind. To relieve yourself, you'd have to risk losing your spot to walk around and find a bathroom. So I'm standing in a crowded area and notice that people are quickly backing away. I then feel a sprinkle on my left calf. I turn around and there is a drunk guy behind me who has dropped trou and proceeded to urinate in front of everyone. What an asshole. If you can't hold it, sucks to be you. Don't piss on everyone else. But I got over it.

When Rage finally took the stage, 60,000 people rushed like maniacs forward plowing anyone in their way. I had no choice but to inadvertently push whoever was around me, carried along with the crowd. It was quite an exciting experience. Zack had to actually stop in the middle of the third song. He stopped his rapping, signaled to the band to quit playing, and addressed the audience. The moshing had gotten so crazy that many people were starting to get hurt. Apparently people were being crushed in the front row near the stage. "Brothers and Sisters," he began, "please respect and take care of those around you. We have tons of our best shit to throw down for you this evening, but we can't do that if you are going to hurt each other. Please, everyone take ten steps back." We obliged. He only had to make this same announcement twice more during the show. Even though it is ridiculous that people would actually hurt each other during a rock show, it was an amazing experience to be a part of. The energy was unmatched. They played all the old favorites and were musically flawless. On top of that, their showmanship was breathtaking. I left an altered person.

Sunday, August 3:

After another Chicago style pizza experience, John and I decided to visit the Art Institute of Chicago before hitting up the third day of the concert. This proved to be a relaxing and moving way to begin the afternoon.

We entered the park around 4, just in time for Iron and Wine to take the stage. Surprisingly, he was plugged in the whole time. No quiet acoustic pieces for the normally low key and lo-fi artist from Miami. It was quite a good show.

Next came one of the best surprises of the weekend. If you had told me that Blues Traveler would have been one of my favorite experiences this weekend, I'd have had words with you. But they put on a hell of a show. They do not take themselves too seriously, they rock hard and get the crowd involved. I loved it.

After the hasbeens, we viewed the dynamic duo of Cee-lo and Danger Mouse, more commonly referred to as Gnarls Barkley. These guys also put on a hell of a show. They are thought of more as a R&B act, but they were there with a full band. They played their best stuff from both albums and closed with a cover of the Radiohead song "Reckoner." They put a smile on my face.

The weekend ended with an arrogant over the top performance from Kanye West. His show was easily the most expensive one all weekend. Needless to say, it was an impressive performance. The crowd was completely enthralled. My favorite part was when he prophetically claimed that he would one day be the greatest of all time. Greater than Jimi Hendrix, Bob Marly, Marvin Gaye, and Michael Jackson. "If I don't speak for myself, who else will?" It was fun.

This weekend proved to be extremely memorable. Even though I'd prefer to see many of these bands in a more intimate setting, it was definitely worth the trip. Being that I love lists I'll leave you with two. The first is the order of the bands I was most excited to see. The second is a list of what ended up being my favorite shows.

1. Radiohead
2. Rage Against the Machine
3. Explosions in the Sky
4. The Raconteurs
5. Kanye West
6. Gnarls Barkley
7. The Black Keys
8. DeVotchKa
9. Iron and Wine
10. Broken Social Scene
11. Blues Traveler

1. Rage Against the Machine
2. Radiohead
3. Blues Traveler
4. DeVotchKa
5. The Raconteurs
6. Broken Social Scene
7. Gnarls Barkley
8. Kanye West
9. Iron and Wine
10. Explosions in the Sky
11. The Black Keys

Pardon My Absence

2008-08-26T20:16:00.001-07:00

I write here now to offer my sincerest apologies to the 2 or 3 of you that read this blog for my month and a half absence. July and August whipped past like a tornado that'd make Dorothy Gale urinate all over those ruby red slippers. Here's what the time period consisted of...

July 4th - 6th:

Spontaneous road trip to visit the Riley family in Orem, UT. Tim was my boss/mentor during my year with SENTREX Exterminator my senior year at APU. He ended up inviting me to be an unofficial member of the family. I cordially accepted. Tim, his wife Glenda, his daughter Catherine, and son Chris all became vital members of my world. They moved to Orem over a year and a half ago. All the while I'd been promising to visit, but never did. Finally, the week before the 4th, I decided that I'd jump in my car that Friday morning. I had the day off from work and wanted to get the hell out of town. It was an outstanding but short trip.

July 10th:

My hard drive goes belly up. It doesn't get fixed until the first of August...no blog entries.

July 11th - 21st:

In Portland for David's wedding. It was a blasty blast. I'll go into detail in a later blog.

July 20th:

Our landlord drops the "you have 30 days to get your asses the hell out of the place you're renting or your souls are mine" email. Ok, I guess it wasn't that dramatic. It came out of the blue and we were in no way prepared to search for a place at that current time. Apparently he had family that had fallen on hard times and wanted to move them into the place for a reduced rate. What a douchebag.

August 1st - 4th.

In Chicago for Lollapalooza! I'll not go into detail for this will be the subject of my next blog.

August 5th - 19th:

Frantically searching for a place to live. We ended up finding one about a block from where we lived the day before our lease was up. We moved in a day and a half. It was unbelievable.

So my focus has been elsewhere these last two months. Hopefully the 2 or 3 readers of this blog found other useless ways to occupy their internet time.

First Halfsies

2008-07-07T21:02:00.000-07:00

2008 is halfway over. Here are my music and film favs over the first halfsy of the year.

Film

1. WALL-E (pure magic and inspiration)
2. Iron Man (Downey Jr. is the cat's pajamas)
3. Forgetting Sarah Marshall (Doesn't quite reach the hilarity of Knocked Up, but still funny)
4. In Bruges (a little uneven, but strong in parts)
5. Wanted (fun to watch, altogether forgettable)

Films I have not yet seen that may have changed this list

The Bank Job
Redbelt
Smart People
The Life Before Her Eyes
Leatherheads
Kung Fu Panda
Paranoid Park
Run Fat Boy Run
The Visitor

Disappointing first half film

Be Kind Rewind (Great cast, promising premise, solid director, bad film)
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of Crystal School (Could have been terrible...it wasn't, could've been great...it wasn't)
Prince Caspian (Not a bad film by any stretch...too much action and too little character development, fun action but could've been so much more)

Second half film I'm looking forward to

The Road (John Hillcoat)
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (David Fincher)
Milk (Gus Van Sant)
The Dark Knight (Christopher Nolan)
Synechdoche, New York (Charlie Kaufman)
Pineapple Express (David Gordan Green)
Choke (Clark Gregg)
Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist (Peter Sollett)
W. (Oliver Stone)
Zack and Miri Make a Porno (Kevin Smith)
Quantum of Solace (Marc Forster)
House of Lies (Ridley Scott)
Changeling (Clint Eastwood)
Che (Steven Soderbergh)
Brothers (Jim Sheridan)

Music

Five Favs so far

1. My Morning Jacket - Evil Urges
2. Sun Kil Moon - April
3. Bon Iver - For Emma, Forever Ago
4. Spiritualized - Songs in A & E
5. The Raconteurs - Consolers of the Lonely

Very Solid albums (alphabetically)

The Black Keys - Attack and Release
Coldplay - Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends
Death Cab For Cutie - Narrow Stairs
DeVotchKa - A Mad And Faithful Telling
Gnarls Barkley - The Odd Couple
Jack Johnson - Sleep through the Static
The Roots - Rising Down
Sigur Ros - Med Sud I Eyrum Vid Spilum Endalaust
Unwed Sailor - Little Wars

Decent Albums, few good songs, altogether forgettable

Fleet Foxes - Fleet Foxes
The Mars Volta - The Bedlam in Goliath
Weezer - Weezer (Red Album)

Albums I'm most looking forward to

Beck - Modern Guilt (tomorrow)
Conor Oberst - Conor Oberst (August 5)
The Verve - Four (August 19)
The Cure - ??? (September 13)
Mogwai - The Hawk is Howling (September 23)
Oasis - Dig Out Your Soul (October 6)
David Bazan - ??? (???)
Common - The Believer (November)

Both these lists are subject to change...especially the music list, seeing as albums grow on you with repeated listens.

Dilemma

2008-07-02T17:43:00.000-07:00

Barring any unforeseeable obstacles, my roommate John and I are headed to Lollapalooza! I'm experiencing a level excitement which is causing me to sweat in places I never have. The current lineup is quite impressive. The likes of Radiohead, Wilco, Rage Against the Machine, Kanye West, The Raconteurs, Nine Inch Nails, and Gnarls Barkley will grace the stage with their presence....not to mention smaller equally awesome acts like Broken Social Scene, Explosions in the Sky, Iron and Wine, Devotchka, The Black Keys, and Grizzly Bear. Needless to say, I can't wait.

There is in fact a dilemma. Wilco and Rage Against The Machine are scheduled to perform at the same time. I love both of these bands. Who in the hell do I go and see?

I'm leaning towards RATM and let me tell you why. I've already seen Wilco twice this past year....once in May and once last September. I've never seen Rage. Rage has also been divorced, or I guess separated, for about 8 years now and they are performing again. This is a chance to see a historical band, once thought to be dead, now resurrected in glory. I'm also excited about the energy of a live performance from a band like Rage.

A couple of things that would send me Jeff Tweedy's way include that my roommate really wants to see them, even though he was with me in both September and May. Also, both of those shows were indoors, while they'd be playing on an outdoor stage at Lollapalooza. Finally, the concert is in Chicago, which is where Wilco hails from. Bands, like sports teams, usually play best at home.

What should I do?

Confessions

2008-06-23T23:25:00.000-07:00

Here's a list of guilty pleasures and other embarrassments. Enjoy...

I love the movie Newsies and have sung along while watching.

If I could, I would leave my job, friends, and family to enter training to be a Jedi Knight.

I can name 4 out of the 5 members of the group N*Sync. If one of them is named Chris, I can name all 5.

I flex in front of the mirror on a regular basis.

The main reason I decided to attend Azusa Pacific University is that when I toured the campus my senior year of high school, I saw the prettiest girl I had ever seen in person walk out of Engstrom Hall. I made my decision then and there and never saw that angel again.

I actually think Ashton Kutcher is kinda funny.

I would vote for Barack Obama just so the arrogant uber intellectuals would think I was cool.

I played with my younger brother's toy lightsaber late into high school.

If I had to, I could probably sing every word to "I Want It That Way" by the Backstreet Boys.

I still cry every time I watch the scene where Rudy reads his Notre Dame acceptance letter on the park bench.

I still kinda have a crush on a girl that I haven't seen since 2nd grade.

Once, at work, I was assisting one of the kids in his self help routine (brushing teeth, washing face, etc.) and I farted. A coworker of mine pointed to my kid and said "I think he just farted." "How do you know it was him?" I asked her. "I know that smell, and it's him," she replied. This means I've successfully passed my own stench off on the 12 year old, deaf, autistic kid I work with. I'm proud of that.

My arrogance is so great that I sometimes actually believe I am smarter than people wo think Napoleon Dynamite is a funny movie.

I am still scared of the troll from the movie "Ernest Scared Stupid"

I've peed in the shower before.

The best and most exciting dream I ever had is that I was a winning contestant on American Gladiators. I had that dream 6 years ago and still remember intimate details.

I owned Boys to Men's II on cassette tape in 6th grade and loved the song "On Bended Knee"

I've seen Weird Al Yankovic in concert.

I went and saw Brokeback Mountain in the theater by myself, and even though I am straight, I was offended that I was not hit on.

I pretend to have an opinion, but deep down, I don't really care who gets elected president.

I'd read Pride and Prejudice cover to cover if I actually thought It'd impress a girl that I had a crush on.

Even though everyone says he sucks, I think Keanu Reeves is a badass.

I try and put on a facade of humility, but I am constantly looking for sly ways to let people know about my impressive 10k time.

I've farted at least 7 or 8 times while writing this.

Thanks for reading, hopefully this gives you a chuckle.

I dig your music...Your band name sucks

2008-06-12T21:48:00.000-07:00

Occasionally, when I'm trying to sleep, I lay awake making random lists in my head. Who are the top five guitarists from the 70's? Who are the five best defensive outfielders in the National League? What are my top ten breakfast cereals of all time?

Last night, I could not sleep due to the fact that I was thinking of band names. I started thinking of great band names and band names that suck all sorts of ass. So, I started listing. As therapy, I decided to list a few of these bands in cyberspace. My only criteria for a band to be on the list is I have to own at least one of their albums, so there will be no novelty bands on here. Reasons for loving a band name include witty puns, names that just role of the tongue, something deep or emotional is communicated in the name. Reasons for hating band names include exactly the opposite of what's listed above.

Here are some band names I love in alphabetical order

The Arcade Fire
Black Sabbath
The Clash
The Cure
Fleetwood Mac
Guns 'n Roses
Led Zeppelin
Nirvana
Pearl Jam
Pink Floyd
Queen
Rage Against the Machine
The Rolling Stones
The Roots
Sigur Ros
Soundgarden
U2
The White Stripes
The Who
Wilco

Now, here are some names I strongly dislike...remember, these are all bands that I like/love, but I had to get over their name first. I mean, really, their are some awful choices here. Who makes the executive decision on these names?

Arctic Monkeys
Better than Ezra
Counting Crows
Death Cab for Cutie
Foo Fighters
Jimmy Eat World
My Morning Jacket
Pedro the Lion
Red Hot Chili Peppers
Smashing Pumpkins

I know, I know...these names probably mean something to the members of these bands...a clever inside joke perhaps. The simply don't translate well into band names. Fortunately for these bands, they make good music. A few of them make great music.

I'm interested in all of your thoughts. Do you disagree with any of my opinions? Doy you have your own band name love/hates?

Perspiration

2008-06-07T14:00:00.000-07:00

It's June. Sunlight illuminates the wind blowing through the trees. There's still snow on Pikes Peak. Outside is where I belong.

Ski Season is over. Saturdays finally offer a day of rest. Today's laundry list of activities include above all, laundry. Whites - check, colors - check, delicates - check, bedsheets - check, towels - check. The soft rumble of the dryer echoes in the background as a French film causes me to wonder if I could really communicate only blinking my left eye. Is there really a worse prison than one's own body?

Should I put my jeans in the dryer or hang them to dry?

The Rockies have won 3 straight games. They are now 3-7 in their last ten games. Last night, they were down 4-1 to the Brewers. They scored 5 in the bottom of the 8th to go ahead by two. It brought back feelings of excitement from last season. I want to feel that excited about something again.

Did I use too much detergent with my whites?

I guess Monday evening was rather exciting. Garret and I were given the opportunity to see the Roots in Denver. They opened for the ever creative Miss Erykah Badu. It was my first hip hop show. I wore my cool jeans, hoping to fit in with the hip crowd. The concert was really quite fantastic. The Roots covered everyone from Iron Butterfly to Talib Kweli to Julie Andrews. I never imagined that The Sound of Music would be inspiration for a 10 minute guitar solo at a hip hop show. The band did exactly what they needed to entertain. It was more about spectacle and performance than simply playing their greatest hits. I thoroughly enjoyed myself. I've never sweat so much at a concert. Garret and I also turned to each other a few times to inform of the phantom hands regularly caressing our hind ends. I guess R & B brings out the touchy feely aspect of one's personality.

Why can I never get the sheets tight and straight on my bed?

Tonight, I'll be cheering on my last place Rockies from the club level...Coors in one hand, hope in the other.

2008-05-14T21:37:00.000-07:00

"You would do far more good if you just preached the gospel of Jesus rather than trying to get rid of Third World debt relief" - On Bono's crusade against poverty in Africa.

-Stephen Baldwin

This puzzles me. I am not aware of the entire context of this quote, but I can't imagine any context which entirely justifies it. This is a sad attitude that prevents the Gospel rather than encouraging it.

Not so wise words from the star of Bio-Dome.

Out of Retirement

2008-04-06T21:38:00.000-07:00

An opportunity presented itself to me recently allowing me to relive dreams of old. I am now playing on a baseball team in a Southern Colorado 18 and over adult league. Opening Day was today and marked the first time I've seen live pitching from 60 feet 6 inches. A period of adjustment is bound to take place, but for now I am having a blast back on the field. This must be what "His Airness" Michael Jordan felt like the first time he came back to the Bulls out of retirement. New life and young blood courses through my veins, pumping my level of hustle to the max.

Today I played right field, hit third in the lineup, and had a blast. I hit 2 or three balls hard and was out in front of a few other pitches. Not bad after a few years of softball. It's great competing without too much pressure.

The most exciting news is that my brother Joe is returning home from college in May. He'll be 19, making him eligible for the team. And, oh yes, he is playing! Being that we're six years apart, we've never played sports together. My parents are thrilled.

If you are at all interested, here is the team website. http://naba.statdepot.com/COS/bombers/default.aspx

Now you can keep track of my dreams.

A Thought

2008-03-30T16:41:00.001-07:00

Solitude breeds enlightenment, but community brings life to the enlightened.

Amendment

2008-03-05T14:49:00.000-08:00

It hasn't even been 24 hours and I already need to amend my list. I forgot a mention for the film Away From Her. This film goes in at #12, therefore bumping everything after it one number down. My apologies.

Film: A Review of 2007

2008-03-04T20:59:00.000-08:00

We're already two months into 2008, so my apologies for the delay of this post. Living in Colorado Springs makes it tough to see some more obscure film before the end of the calendar year and it is my desire to see as much film as possible before reviewing the year.

I thought 2007 was pretty spectacular for film. The top three were pretty easy to decide, after that there were too many from which to decide. The order could easily be shifted.

Before the main list, here are a few minor ones.

Worst/Most Disappointing

Fortunately, I was able to steer clear of most of the crap released in 2007. Sadly, I still saw some not so great stuff. This list is a combination of stuff that was simply bad, and also film that I was looking forward to that was disappointing or didn't live up to potential. Here they are in alphabetical order.

Fracture
Margot at the Wedding
Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End
Reign Over Me
Spider Man 3
Waitress

Most Surprising

Here's a list of film that I either didn't hear that much about, didn't look good on paper, or had a poor trailer, that I ended up really enjoying.

Gone Baby Gone
Superbad
Once
Mr. Brooks

Best of 2007

Honorable Mention: The Savages, Eastern Promises, Once, Charlie Wilson's War, Mr. Brooks

1. Into The Wild
2. There Will Be Blood
3. No Country For Old Men
4. Zodiac
5. Juno
6. Before the Devil Knows You're Dead
7. Gone Baby Gone
8. Knocked Up
9. The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford
10. Superbad
11. Rescue Dawn
12. Sunshine
13. 3:10 to Yuma
14. Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street
15. The Bourne Ultimatum
16. Hot Fuzz
17. Grindhouse: Planet Terror & Death Proof
18. American Gangster
19. Breach
20. Michael Clayton

Movies I've not seen that may have changed this list: Atonement, The Diving Bell and the Butterfly, Dan in Real Life, The Kite Runner, Things We Lost in the Fire, Lars and the Real Girl, Lions for Lambs, Grace is Gone, I'm Not There, Persepolis, Youth Without Youth, Steep, In the Valley of Elah

Like I said, I enjoyed much of the film 2007 had to offer. It was tough to narrow it down, so I didn't. I still have trouble narrowing it down to ten. Did I leave anything out? Do you disagree? Let the dialog begin...

Fanaticism

2008-02-13T20:50:00.000-08:00

A brief look in the dictionary reveals this word's meaning as excessive irrational zeal, excessive intolerance of opposing views, great enthusiasm especially about religion, wild extravagant notions on a subject.

The idea of fanaticism began its tour through my never sleeping mind last fall. Since moving to Colorado in 1996, I've developed a love for the Colorado Rockies. This past season, their ever patient fans were awarded the honor of experiencing them complete the most improbable winning streak in baseball history. Excitement buzzed throughout my family's house and I cherished the thought of being a fan. I was/am a Rockies fan. It is a beautiful thing. My zeal is sometimes irrational. I am intolerant to opposing views. I hate the Dodgers, Padres, and Diamondbacks. Fans of these teams hold views which I am intolerant of.

Recently, I've begun reading a book about violence in Mormon Fundamentalism. These fundamentalists are religious fanatics. Their zeal and intolerance has brought pain, suffering, and death to many. Naturally, as a Christian, I can't help but parallel these religious fanatics with my own experience in the Protestant church. While the mainline Protestant and even mainline Mormon churches may not subscribe to this irrational fanaticism held by fundamentalists, it is still odd that there is a sense of fanaticism.

As evangelicals, we are often guilty of this zeal and intolerance. Yes, we may choose to peacefully coexist, but there still seems to be a mental intolerance that takes place. Very few Christians seem to be willing to engage in rational dialog regarding theology, philosophy, and scripture. Yes, we will discuss it, but only its merits. This is one reason that I am thankful for a small handful of friends with which I can safely engage in true dialog on all subjects. Instead of arguing or refuting my basic questions on the existence of a supreme being or the complex history of scripture, they listen and engage with me.

I'm continually intrigued by the fact that even though most evangelicals don't engage in behavior that the average American would refer to as religiously fanatic, there still seems to be a negative element of fanaticism in the church. I understand that as a die hard Rockies fan, this may sound hypocritical. The truth is, most sports fans know how to compartmentalize that part of their life so that it does not have a negative impact on those around them. It is merely for fun and to be part of a community of fans. Religious fanaticism, however, consumes all aspects of life.

I realize as I'm writing this that I have not necessarily thought all of this through. I apologize for the rambling nature of this blog. I'm just getting some thoughts out and would appreciate comments. Let us engage in some health dialog.

Exciting.

2008-02-06T21:25:00.001-08:00

I read this article the other day. It made me tingle in my jiblets. Enjoy...

Chat with Tim Kurkjian

Can the Rockies repeat at National League champions in 2008, or will they fall back to their non-contending status? Tim Kurkjian made the cases for and against the reigning NL champs and he stops by Tuesday at 1 p.m. ET to talk about this and more. The case for the Rockies They were stunningly good down the stretch and through the first two rounds of the playoffs, winning 21 of 22 games during one stretch. That was no fluke. During that stretch, they posted an ERA of 2.80. After finishing the first half of the season with an ERA 43 points above the league average, the Rockies led the league in ERA in the second half of the season, an amazing turnaround. And their pitching staff at least appears as if it should be better in '08. Jeff Francis (17 wins, tied for the most in a season ever by a Rockie) was terrific once he became the ace after Aaron Cook got injured. Now Cook is healthy. The Rockies have have Ubaldo Jimenez (''hardest throwing young pitcher we saw all year,'' one Dodger said) for the whole season, and they added veterans Josh Towers, Mark Redman and Kip Wells to compete with Franklin Morales (another hard thrower) for the fifth spot in the starting rotation. And maybe Greg Reynolds, their No. 1 selection in the 2006 draft, will be ready by late in 2008. Plus, Manny Corpas, who had 19 saves last year, will be the closer on Opening Day. The Rockies have a dynamic offensive team (''they won't have an out in the lineup, one through eight,'' one scout said), led by left fielder Matt Holliday, who finished second in the NL MVP voting last season. Holliday, shortstop Troy Tulowitzki, third baseman Garrett Atkins and outfielder Brad Hawpe received multi-year contracts, another sign that this team plans on being together, and winning together, for a long time. But the biggest reason they can repeat is their defense, which set the NL record last year for the highest fielding percentage. It will miss second baseman Kaz Matsui, who signed with Houston, but it still has Tulowitzki, who was the best defensive shortstop in the league last year as a rookie. The case against the Rockies Seasons such as last year happen once in a lifetime. The Rockies were the fifth team ever to go from last place to the World Series, and the sixth team ever to go from nine games under .500 to the World Series. It was the first time in their history that they'd won more than 84 games in a season. Maybe 2007 was the start of something great, but they will miss Matsui's defense, and his speed at the top of the order. And is that rotation good enough to win again? The Diamondbacks, who finished in first place in the NL West last year, added Dan Haren to go along with Brandon Webb. If Randy Johnson makes a comeback, Arizona's rotation will be much better. The verdict The National League isn't very good right now, but it's also very hard to repeat these days. The Mets, with Johan Santana, are the best team in the league. The Rockies are a contender. They may not return to the World Series, but they're closer to getting there again than to falling back to the 75-win level.

2008-02-03T12:21:00.000-08:00

Right now, just relaxing my legs after a day of skiing with people whose talent is vastly superior to my own. My lower half is numb, upper body is sore, and my mind is stoked to watch the Super Bowl. This first post serves the lone purpose of killing time before 4:00 Mountain Time.