Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Saturday, October 28, 2006
What A Beautiful Day
I love California. On a day where half the country is under snow, extreme cold, or rain, we get a day with warm weather and lots of sun. Plus, unlike other Saturdays, I get to enjoy it.
My shift was cut today due to an over budget of +100 hours. So what am I going to do today? Relax.
Here is my plan for this afternoon:
Buy a paper
Pick up some beer (I'm thinking Alaskan Amber and Lost Coast Great White)
Pick up some cherry pipe tobacco
Maybe have a cigar
Clean my rifle (I haven't cleaned it since I took it to the range)
Relax with David and Toph
I think I can do all this before I have to go to the costume party with Jenn.
Oh, and before I forget, remember to set your clocks back one hour tonight.
My shift was cut today due to an over budget of +100 hours. So what am I going to do today? Relax.
Here is my plan for this afternoon:
I think I can do all this before I have to go to the costume party with Jenn.
Oh, and before I forget, remember to set your clocks back one hour tonight.
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
A Much Needed Update
A lot has happened since the last time I've posted something serious (which was my recap on the camping trip).
First, I got a quasi promotion at Target. I'm now a Human Resources Team Member, which has the added benefit of teaching me about Human Resources its self. An area I've thought about entering after college. I will admit I'm enjoying the position more than I though I would. I love learning about the rules, regulations, and bullshit that go into running a multi-billion dollar company.
Second, Midterms are over! Enough said.
Third, I bumped into an ex-girlfriend of mine. Most of you remember her (it was Tracy), and it was great. We haven't seen or talked to each other in a little over three years. There we were standing by the library, chatting for two hours, catching up.
Fourth and final: the conclusion to the camping trip saga. On that wonderful night I ended the phone call with "If you want me back you have to fight for me," and to make it a little more difficult "you can't talk to me, you can't see me. I want nothing to do with you for the next couple of days." A week must have gone by. I would come home and there would be flowers in my room, pictures of the camping trip on my door, and notes on my car which would greet me when I would get off of work late at night. I racked my brain trying to figure out what I was going to do.
Do I tell her to leave?
Do I take her back?
What do I do?
Finally, I knew what I was going to do. In an extremely rare moment of forgiveness, and against every fiber in my being, I took her back. I will be honest, the death of my uncle Bill and Pat five years ago had a major roll in my decision. If this would have happened two months ago the my reaction would have been very very different. Yet, I forgave her. I don't know why, but I did. I hope I don't regret my actions.
By the way, here are the pictures from the camping trip. There are no captions because they are pretty self explanatory.
If you are wondering, the one of best part of that weekend was meeting a guy named Chris (the guy with the glass of beer). He was an independent beer distributor who happened to bring 2 pony kegs and a portable tap. The beer was ice cold Alaskan Amber (a new favorite of mine) and Bison Creek Ale. Right when he set up camp he introduced himself and told us one thing I will never forget; "Drink as much as you can. I can't finish it all!"
Nothing like camping by a lake in the mountains, with a pack of smokes, unlimited beer, good food, and great friends.
First, I got a quasi promotion at Target. I'm now a Human Resources Team Member, which has the added benefit of teaching me about Human Resources its self. An area I've thought about entering after college. I will admit I'm enjoying the position more than I though I would. I love learning about the rules, regulations, and bullshit that go into running a multi-billion dollar company.
Second, Midterms are over! Enough said.
Third, I bumped into an ex-girlfriend of mine. Most of you remember her (it was Tracy), and it was great. We haven't seen or talked to each other in a little over three years. There we were standing by the library, chatting for two hours, catching up.
Fourth and final: the conclusion to the camping trip saga. On that wonderful night I ended the phone call with "If you want me back you have to fight for me," and to make it a little more difficult "you can't talk to me, you can't see me. I want nothing to do with you for the next couple of days." A week must have gone by. I would come home and there would be flowers in my room, pictures of the camping trip on my door, and notes on my car which would greet me when I would get off of work late at night. I racked my brain trying to figure out what I was going to do.
Do I tell her to leave?
Do I take her back?
What do I do?
Finally, I knew what I was going to do. In an extremely rare moment of forgiveness, and against every fiber in my being, I took her back. I will be honest, the death of my uncle Bill and Pat five years ago had a major roll in my decision. If this would have happened two months ago the my reaction would have been very very different. Yet, I forgave her. I don't know why, but I did. I hope I don't regret my actions.
By the way, here are the pictures from the camping trip. There are no captions because they are pretty self explanatory.
If you are wondering, the one of best part of that weekend was meeting a guy named Chris (the guy with the glass of beer). He was an independent beer distributor who happened to bring 2 pony kegs and a portable tap. The beer was ice cold Alaskan Amber (a new favorite of mine) and Bison Creek Ale. Right when he set up camp he introduced himself and told us one thing I will never forget; "Drink as much as you can. I can't finish it all!"
Nothing like camping by a lake in the mountains, with a pack of smokes, unlimited beer, good food, and great friends.
Monday, October 23, 2006
This Has To Be A Record
Here I am, sitting by my computer at 11:20 at night. What's so great about this you ask?
I just got out of a midterm. That's right, I got out of class at 11:01 PM.
The class: HCSV 433 "Financial Management of Healthcare Organizations"
Start time: 6:00PM
How many students were left when I finished: 5
I'm so wiped out, I can barely type.
I just got out of a midterm. That's right, I got out of class at 11:01 PM.
The class: HCSV 433 "Financial Management of Healthcare Organizations"
Start time: 6:00PM
How many students were left when I finished: 5
I'm so wiped out, I can barely type.
Friday, October 06, 2006
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Getting Back To A Normal Routine
These past two week have been hell, and right when things are starting to turn around, I get kicked back down to the ground.
So here is what happened this weekend.
Monica (my sister) and I were suppose to go camping this weekend. We talked about it about a month ago and we were dead set on going. Yet, with the death of my uncle Bill, and her fear of having to drive to Chico by her self, she bailed on me. I know I did not want to see if I could work (never turn away from a work free weekend), so I decided to still go camping. Now this is where Jenn enters the story.
I met Jenn this summer. It was the night the Lizzy came over because she had been on vacation for a week. And there was Jenn, lying on Chris's bed, watching Brokeback Mountain (on a date with Topher if you will). The next day I ask Toph if we are ever going to see her again, to which he replied no (choice words omitted). A couple days later she texted messages me and we start to hang out. I never thought about a relationship with her because after being with Steph for two years, I wanted to be single for a change (that was nine months ago). And then my uncle Bill died.
Something changed inside me last week. I met with Steph before I headed down to my family. And after listening to her talk about this guy she is with and how we would never be together again, I knew I had to move on.
I arrived at my parents’ house late Thursday afternoon. This is the third funeral in under a year for my family: Great Uncle Frank, Grandpa Rogelio, and now Uncle Bill. The funny thing about all this is this is the only time we get to see the extended family, even though we all live in the Loomis-Roseville area.
But thought out the whole ordeal there was one person on my mind and in my thoughts; that was Jenn. She called me as the weekend progressed to see how I was doing, letting me know that she was there any time, with a shoulder to cry on. She kept me strong and she was by my side (in sprit) when we laid him to rest right next to my Grandma Hazel and his cousin Danny. She was there when I needed her the most.
Coming back to Chico I knew I had to ask her to be mine. I brought her flowers to work, called her when I thought about her (which was often), and called her best friend to let her know what my intentions were. The best part of all what Jenn was starting to fall for me all over again. The conclusion of all this was the camping trip. I asked her to come with me, I asked her to be my girlfriend.
I was happy; I did not feel alone anymore. The air was clean, the lake was pristine, and Toph's presence made us smile. Nothing could go wrong. I had my best friend, I had the girl of my dreams, and I met a beer distributor named Chris who told us to drink up because he brought three full kegs of beer he was not going to finish (this guy brought a portable tap and everything, he was the best camping neighbor ever!).
Sunday nigh, back in Chico, I call Jenn to tell her good night. She tells me that she is thinking of me and that she cares for me and that she starting to fall in love with me. I tell her how happy she has made me and how great this weekend was. I end the call with "be careful sweetheart" because I know how here friends get when they're drunk.
The phone rings at midnight thirty, its been 20 minutes since I told her goodnight.
"Blake, I don't deserve you."
"What do you mean sweetheart?"
"I just slept with Andrew"
"Just now?"
"Yea. . ."
God this hurts, I need a moment . . . .
So here is what happened this weekend.
Monica (my sister) and I were suppose to go camping this weekend. We talked about it about a month ago and we were dead set on going. Yet, with the death of my uncle Bill, and her fear of having to drive to Chico by her self, she bailed on me. I know I did not want to see if I could work (never turn away from a work free weekend), so I decided to still go camping. Now this is where Jenn enters the story.
I met Jenn this summer. It was the night the Lizzy came over because she had been on vacation for a week. And there was Jenn, lying on Chris's bed, watching Brokeback Mountain (on a date with Topher if you will). The next day I ask Toph if we are ever going to see her again, to which he replied no (choice words omitted). A couple days later she texted messages me and we start to hang out. I never thought about a relationship with her because after being with Steph for two years, I wanted to be single for a change (that was nine months ago). And then my uncle Bill died.
Something changed inside me last week. I met with Steph before I headed down to my family. And after listening to her talk about this guy she is with and how we would never be together again, I knew I had to move on.
I arrived at my parents’ house late Thursday afternoon. This is the third funeral in under a year for my family: Great Uncle Frank, Grandpa Rogelio, and now Uncle Bill. The funny thing about all this is this is the only time we get to see the extended family, even though we all live in the Loomis-Roseville area.
But thought out the whole ordeal there was one person on my mind and in my thoughts; that was Jenn. She called me as the weekend progressed to see how I was doing, letting me know that she was there any time, with a shoulder to cry on. She kept me strong and she was by my side (in sprit) when we laid him to rest right next to my Grandma Hazel and his cousin Danny. She was there when I needed her the most.
Coming back to Chico I knew I had to ask her to be mine. I brought her flowers to work, called her when I thought about her (which was often), and called her best friend to let her know what my intentions were. The best part of all what Jenn was starting to fall for me all over again. The conclusion of all this was the camping trip. I asked her to come with me, I asked her to be my girlfriend.
I was happy; I did not feel alone anymore. The air was clean, the lake was pristine, and Toph's presence made us smile. Nothing could go wrong. I had my best friend, I had the girl of my dreams, and I met a beer distributor named Chris who told us to drink up because he brought three full kegs of beer he was not going to finish (this guy brought a portable tap and everything, he was the best camping neighbor ever!).
Sunday nigh, back in Chico, I call Jenn to tell her good night. She tells me that she is thinking of me and that she cares for me and that she starting to fall in love with me. I tell her how happy she has made me and how great this weekend was. I end the call with "be careful sweetheart" because I know how here friends get when they're drunk.
The phone rings at midnight thirty, its been 20 minutes since I told her goodnight.
"Blake, I don't deserve you."
"What do you mean sweetheart?"
"I just slept with Andrew"
"Just now?"
"Yea. . ."
God this hurts, I need a moment . . . .
Monday, September 25, 2006
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Returning To Chico
It's nice to return home, sleep in your own bed, and collect your thoughts. My uncle Bill was to young, only 62.
I read this poem during the funeral on behalf of my Aunt Ronda, its titled "The Dash"
I read of a man who stood to speak at the funeral of his friend.
He referred to the dates on his tombstone from the beginning . . . to the end.
He noted that first came the date of his birth and spoke of the second with tears,
but he said that what mattered most of all was the dash between those years.
For that dash represents all the time that he spent alive on earth,
and now only those who loved him know what that little line is worth.
For it matters not, how much we own; the cars, the house, the cash.
What matters is how we live and love and how we spend our dash.
So think about this long and hard, are there things you'd like to change?
For you never know how much time is left. (You could be at "dash mid-range.")
If we could just slow down enough to consider what's true and what's real,
and always try to understand the way other people feel.
And . . . be less quick to anger, and show appreciation more
and love the people in our lives like we've never loved before.
If we treat each other with respect, and more often wear a smile,
remembering that this special dash might only last a little while.
How are you spending your dash? How am I spending mine?
I read this poem during the funeral on behalf of my Aunt Ronda, its titled "The Dash"
I read of a man who stood to speak at the funeral of his friend.
He referred to the dates on his tombstone from the beginning . . . to the end.
He noted that first came the date of his birth and spoke of the second with tears,
but he said that what mattered most of all was the dash between those years.
For that dash represents all the time that he spent alive on earth,
and now only those who loved him know what that little line is worth.
For it matters not, how much we own; the cars, the house, the cash.
What matters is how we live and love and how we spend our dash.
So think about this long and hard, are there things you'd like to change?
For you never know how much time is left. (You could be at "dash mid-range.")
If we could just slow down enough to consider what's true and what's real,
and always try to understand the way other people feel.
And . . . be less quick to anger, and show appreciation more
and love the people in our lives like we've never loved before.
If we treat each other with respect, and more often wear a smile,
remembering that this special dash might only last a little while.
How are you spending your dash? How am I spending mine?
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
All We Are Is Dust In The Wind
Monica & Katie's 8th Grade Graduation
June 4th, 2003
From Right to Left: My dad, my uncle Bill
Today my uncle Bill lost his battle against cancer. It all started with a trip to the doctor for back pain and a bad headache about a month ago, and ended up with a diagnosis of cancer of the Liver and Pancreas, as well as a mild stroke.
He was only 62. He is my dad's older brother, and Grandpa Tony's first born.
There is so much I want to say. . .but I don't type anymore.
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Last Week Surprise
So I'm walking home from class last Thursday when I get this call from Lizzy.
"What are you doing tonight"
"Nothing important, why?"
"I have two tickets to see Charlie Murphy and the Punchline, are you interested?"
So of course I sad yes. She picked me up at 5:30 and we were off to Sacramento. All in all the show was ok (Gabriel Iglesias was by far better), with the best part of his routine being the end where he talked about his stint on the Chappelle Show.
Here is a clip of what made Charlie Murphy his own, and not just Eddie Murphy's brother. Enjoy!
"What are you doing tonight"
"Nothing important, why?"
"I have two tickets to see Charlie Murphy and the Punchline, are you interested?"
So of course I sad yes. She picked me up at 5:30 and we were off to Sacramento. All in all the show was ok (Gabriel Iglesias was by far better), with the best part of his routine being the end where he talked about his stint on the Chappelle Show.
Here is a clip of what made Charlie Murphy his own, and not just Eddie Murphy's brother. Enjoy!
Monday, September 04, 2006
A Powerful Voice
On our way home from work, Hannah (my neighbor who also works at Target; we car pooled today), played me a song. It was Pink's "Dr. Mr. President." I knew I had to share this song with everyone, so I youtubed it. This is not the official music video (because there isn't one), but it's one of the best I've seen tonight.
Please, listen to the lyrics, feel the song. If you are moved like I was, you will find your self with new respect towards Pink and her music.
Please, listen to the lyrics, feel the song. If you are moved like I was, you will find your self with new respect towards Pink and her music.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
It's Finally Free!
After almost three years of charging $6.99 a month for shotty wifi service on campus, Chico State finally decided to fund the fledgling program. Now that their revenue source is taken care of, and guaranteed, CNS (the college ran phone company) offers wifi free to anyone with a portal account and a laptop (well any wifi enabled device).
I hope my PDA will work with the network.
I hope my PDA will work with the network.
Saturday, August 26, 2006
A Must See Movie
With the conclusion of the first week of school, loosing my health insurance (turing the mythical age of 23 is a bitch), buying health insurance (thank you Chico State's Blue Cross Network), and going to see a great movie, I can say that this past week has been good.
But the movie "Little Miss Sunshine," has to be by far the best comedy I have seen all year. The movie is filled with jokes that at times are not funny at all (kind of like watching a train wreck in slow motion). I honestly don't remember the last time I laughed so hard at a movie. I definitely recommend this film to anyone who enjoyed "Office Space" or "The Full Monty." This is one I am definitely going to buy when it comes out on DVD.
But the movie "Little Miss Sunshine," has to be by far the best comedy I have seen all year. The movie is filled with jokes that at times are not funny at all (kind of like watching a train wreck in slow motion). I honestly don't remember the last time I laughed so hard at a movie. I definitely recommend this film to anyone who enjoyed "Office Space" or "The Full Monty." This is one I am definitely going to buy when it comes out on DVD.
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
What A Month!
Wow, what a month August is turning out to be. I came back from Hawai'i, Panda came up to say hi, my dad turned 60, I turned 23, and school started. Funny thing is this is not even the tip of the iceberg.
Where to begin. . .
Well Hawai'i was a blast. As you can tell from past posting I really enjoyed discovering the other islands, most noteability the island of Moloka'i. I spent my birthday on the island of Lana'i with my dad and brother once again. And my brother and I did something that we have never done before willingly; a five mile hike throughout Poli Poli Springs State Recreation Park. Every time we go to Maui we always seem to discover something new, and this was unlike any other. The entire hike was though a pine, cypress, and redwood forest. If you were to pass out and wake up there, you would swear you were in Tahoe.
So that was Hawai'i, now on to something else; Toph, My self, and Lizzy trip to the Mormon Temple in Sacramento. Now Toph and I saw this as a once in a lifetime chance to see the inside of "the holiest spot on earth," which as many of you know is off limits to non LDS members and even some LDS members as well (LDS being "Latter-day Saints" which is short for "The Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints" which is long for "Mormons"). Now being Catholic I was expecting crosses everywhere, statues of saints in every corner, and Jesus right in the middle of it all. But to my surprise there was nothing of the sort, to be completely honest it didn't feel like a place of worship at all. Now I know I am being harsh by saying this, but it felt like we were walking into an exclusive country club, membership card required and all. Yet, to be honest, I know Lizzy would feel the same way if she walked into the cathedral in Sacramento. If your reading this Liz, I what you to know that I am honored that you allowed us to join you on that day, and that's the honest truth.
Snakes on a Plane kicked ass!
Let see. . .oh yea! I read in the paper today that the dems and the GOP agreed to increase the minimum wage in California finally. Come Jan. 1st 2007 it will increase by $0.75 to $7.50 an hour. But that's not all! Come Jan. 1st 2008 it will increase another $0.50 to $8.00 an hour, which would make us the top paying state in the nation (pending no other state increases their minimum wage). If your wondering the federal minimum wage is $5.15, the current California minimum wage is $6.75, and Washington state pays the highest minimum wage with $8.63 an hour.
I know I'm forgetting something. Oh, my uncle Bill (who just turned 62 on the 20th) found out that he has Pancreatic and Liver cancer, plus that bad headache he had turned out to be a stroke.
And that is my month so far.
Where to begin. . .
Well Hawai'i was a blast. As you can tell from past posting I really enjoyed discovering the other islands, most noteability the island of Moloka'i. I spent my birthday on the island of Lana'i with my dad and brother once again. And my brother and I did something that we have never done before willingly; a five mile hike throughout Poli Poli Springs State Recreation Park. Every time we go to Maui we always seem to discover something new, and this was unlike any other. The entire hike was though a pine, cypress, and redwood forest. If you were to pass out and wake up there, you would swear you were in Tahoe.
So that was Hawai'i, now on to something else; Toph, My self, and Lizzy trip to the Mormon Temple in Sacramento. Now Toph and I saw this as a once in a lifetime chance to see the inside of "the holiest spot on earth," which as many of you know is off limits to non LDS members and even some LDS members as well (LDS being "Latter-day Saints" which is short for "The Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints" which is long for "Mormons"). Now being Catholic I was expecting crosses everywhere, statues of saints in every corner, and Jesus right in the middle of it all. But to my surprise there was nothing of the sort, to be completely honest it didn't feel like a place of worship at all. Now I know I am being harsh by saying this, but it felt like we were walking into an exclusive country club, membership card required and all. Yet, to be honest, I know Lizzy would feel the same way if she walked into the cathedral in Sacramento. If your reading this Liz, I what you to know that I am honored that you allowed us to join you on that day, and that's the honest truth.
Snakes on a Plane kicked ass!
Let see. . .oh yea! I read in the paper today that the dems and the GOP agreed to increase the minimum wage in California finally. Come Jan. 1st 2007 it will increase by $0.75 to $7.50 an hour. But that's not all! Come Jan. 1st 2008 it will increase another $0.50 to $8.00 an hour, which would make us the top paying state in the nation (pending no other state increases their minimum wage). If your wondering the federal minimum wage is $5.15, the current California minimum wage is $6.75, and Washington state pays the highest minimum wage with $8.63 an hour.
I know I'm forgetting something. Oh, my uncle Bill (who just turned 62 on the 20th) found out that he has Pancreatic and Liver cancer, plus that bad headache he had turned out to be a stroke.
And that is my month so far.
Monday, August 14, 2006
Picachu, Who Killed The Electric Car?
A quick picture of the two electric car re-charging stations at the Galleria in Roseville.
What a busy week. You know after working 40+ right after getting back from vacation makes you feel like you never left. Like the vacation you took never happened. Yet, this past week was fun. I was finally able to see the documentary Who Killed The Electric Car? which was a great story that raises the question "what happened?" If you think about it, the cars were introduced, and then poof! they disappeared off the face of the planet. Sure, they only had a range of 100 miles per charge and you had to plug it in. But with current electric rates they figured out that charging your car was the same as paying $0.60 for a gallon of gas, and to take a line from the movie "The electric car is not for everyone. It can only service about 90% of the population."
Yet, the highlight of my week was going to The Punchline in Sacramento to see my favorite comedian: Mr. Gabriel Iglesias. Now I would usually rant about how funny he was, but I have a better idea.
Here is his 2003 appearance of Comedy Central Presents. Is about a half an hour, but it is well worth it.
Enjoy!
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
I See You Picachu!
Gabriel Iglesias and I out side of the Punchline in Sacramento. I've never laughed so hard in my life!
Thursday, August 03, 2006
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
@ The Luau (Big Island: Week One)
Ok, as a side note I sent this photo to my blog via my cellphone on Friday, July 21st 2006, and it just now got posted. Why the long delay? Who knows.
Nevertheless, from left to right: My uncle Saul (pronounces sA-ull), his nephew Steven (in black), my dad (in red), my brother Robert (the head on my shoulder), and me.
I can't believe that was a week and a half ago. . . where does the time go?
The Final Hawaiian Frontier: Moloka'i Recap
Last Tuesday I got the chance to reach my personal final Hawaiian frontier; I set foot on the island of Moloka'i.
(By the way, that's Maui in the foreground)
After $170 and a hour and a half ferry ride we arrived on the island. We were met with our tour guide "Van" who, in all fairness, was as large as the van he was driving. (We later found out he was recovering from anorexia, well that's what he told us :P ) Our first stop on our guided tour of the island: the Kalaupapa overlook and the sacred phallic rock. Now, instead of boring you with pictures of the lepor colony where a strict quarantine was enforced till 1969, I'm going to show you a picture that I could not resist taking.
Yep, that's my dad, on top of a giant penis. The legend is if you touch the rock you will become pregnant and give birth to a son. I hope for my dads sake that the legend does not come true.
In a nutshell the island was different than the rest. As with all islands, there is a movement associated with them. Oahu is fast paced and bright, the Big island is vast and always renewing, Kaua'i is lush and inviting, Maui is rural and slow, Lana'i is exclusive and warm, and Moloka'i is friendly and leisurely.
We toured the entire island, from one end to the other. We ate a wonderful catered lunch, toured a coffee plantation and a macadamia nut farm. We spent the entire day going from one end of the island to the other, and hopefully next year we will be able to spend a night there. It took me 13 years to reach all the major Hawaiian islands. I wonder what is next?
(By the way, that's Maui in the foreground)
After $170 and a hour and a half ferry ride we arrived on the island. We were met with our tour guide "Van" who, in all fairness, was as large as the van he was driving. (We later found out he was recovering from anorexia, well that's what he told us :P ) Our first stop on our guided tour of the island: the Kalaupapa overlook and the sacred phallic rock. Now, instead of boring you with pictures of the lepor colony where a strict quarantine was enforced till 1969, I'm going to show you a picture that I could not resist taking.
Yep, that's my dad, on top of a giant penis. The legend is if you touch the rock you will become pregnant and give birth to a son. I hope for my dads sake that the legend does not come true.
In a nutshell the island was different than the rest. As with all islands, there is a movement associated with them. Oahu is fast paced and bright, the Big island is vast and always renewing, Kaua'i is lush and inviting, Maui is rural and slow, Lana'i is exclusive and warm, and Moloka'i is friendly and leisurely.
We toured the entire island, from one end to the other. We ate a wonderful catered lunch, toured a coffee plantation and a macadamia nut farm. We spent the entire day going from one end of the island to the other, and hopefully next year we will be able to spend a night there. It took me 13 years to reach all the major Hawaiian islands. I wonder what is next?
Friday, July 28, 2006
Happy Late Birthday Panda!
Yesterday was Panda's birthday. She is now the ripe old age of 22. She was my roommate and is still the love of my life. I would do anything for her (and she knows it :P ).
I don't know if you are going to get the chance to read this before you come home but I want you to know that ever since you left you have always been on my mind. You know I love you Panda, and I miss you even more. I would give anything to be with a girl like you. I know your having a blast on your trip, and I am too. There really is nothing like the beauty the Pacific has to offer.
Until we meet again, one of your boys,
Blake
I don't know if you are going to get the chance to read this before you come home but I want you to know that ever since you left you have always been on my mind. You know I love you Panda, and I miss you even more. I would give anything to be with a girl like you. I know your having a blast on your trip, and I am too. There really is nothing like the beauty the Pacific has to offer.
Until we meet again, one of your boys,
Blake
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Hawai'i 2006: The Big Island Recap
To be honest our first week was simply a blur. A blur because having never been to the big island, we spent our four days there doing everything we could possibly do. But if there is one thing that I will never forget, and that is the time we spent at Hawai'i Volcano National Park. At first it is like every other National Park you enter, with the generic visitor center and a toll booth and the entrance collecting $10 per car. Yet you drive a little over the hill, and you are blown away by what can best be described as the beautiful sight of ongoing destruction. As you can see in the picture above and below an entire highway was wiped out in a lava flow in 2003 (plus 40% of a coastal town and several million dollar homes)
Now lava in its self is unlike anything I have ever seen. Its entire structure is mostly air, while the rest looks like a very dark glass. Walking on it is very interesting because it crunches and gives slightly, kind of like you are walking on bugs.
Now if you are wondering why they call it the big island, the answer is pretty simple; its over 4,000 square miles in size (roughly the same size of the state of Connecticut). For shits and giggles we decided to drive around the entire island in one day, well that took us 8 hours not counting stops. If you ask me it was a good first week. We went to see the worlds most active volcano, the church where my great-grandparents were married in 1916, I got a chance to tour the Kona Brewing Company's home location, plus I got to add to my pilsner glass collection. All and all I had a blast.
Saturday, July 22, 2006
Friday, July 21, 2006
Saturday, July 15, 2006
All You Need Is Beer
Wow, what a day. You have five sales floor closers (3 hard and 2 soft), 2 of which are cashier trained. Calling for back ups every five minutes, no one operator trained, all but one person under 90 days, and you are 15 minutes away from a five hour violation.
So what do you do, you head to Applebee's after to work to have a couple of beers with some coworkers. Nothing like shooting the shit with a couple of people who had it just as bad as you did.
From left to right: Allyn, Me, Brittan
Thursday, July 13, 2006
Happy (Late) Birthday Topher
Being how I missed Toph's 22nd birthday and how I leave to Hawai'i on Tuesday, I thought it would be nice to take him out to lunch. So we waited for David to come home from work, and then we were off. Our destination: Casa Ramos
We started off with some beers (cerveza Sol, a throw back to our Mexico trip) and ordered our food. When the waitress came by and asked us if we wanted another round, I answered with and enthusiastic yes. Toph, of course said he was fine, but this being his birthday lunch I insisted. Little did I know that the waitress heard me when I sad it was Toph's birthday.
After our meal, and a couple of beers later they came out, singing. With the infectious singing they brought him a rubber chicken, a sombrero, and a camera.
This my friends is how our lunch ended. And what a lunch is was.
Monday, June 26, 2006
It Is True. It Is An Inconvenient Truth.
You owe it to your self to see this movie. If you don't think Global Warming is real, go outside and tell me its not happening.
Sunday, June 25, 2006
Where Now?
So where do I go from here?
How am I suppose to feel?
I gave it my all just to make you happy.
You were on my mind every moment I was awake.
And in the end your not with me.
Why not me?
I feel pain, yet I know your happy with him.
Where do I go from here?
How am I suppose to feel?
I gave it my all just to make you happy.
You were on my mind every moment I was awake.
And in the end your not with me.
Why not me?
I feel pain, yet I know your happy with him.
Where do I go from here?
Click! And Your World Passes You By.
It is amazing how a movie will make you think.
It is amazing how spending time with your family will make you think.
It is amazing how just going for it will make you think.
It is amazing the stuff you think of when you do not say a word for two hours.
Thinking, spending time to analyze your thoughts. It's simply amazing what you think about.
I just went to go see Click! with my family (minus Robert because he is at a Spain reunion with a couple of buddies). It was one of those movies that shock you. Shock you because it was good, so good that your mind bursts into a million thoughts that you have been suppressing for quite some time. You start to look back at what has passed you by. You remember things that happened years ago, things you promised to do but never got fulfilled. Things you wish you had; love, companionship, true happiness. You wonder if you did one thing differently would where you are now change? If you did something differently would you be with that one person who you know would return the love you project towards them? Should you take a break and watch the world pass you by for just a little while? What do you do?
I did one thing that I never thought I would do; I went for a girl that I thought I never had a shot with. For the first time in my life I wanted a real relationship. I wanted to get to know her, spend time with her, go slow. Toph and David could not believe it, me not wanting to sleep with a girl till I got to know here. I never had a problem finding someone for that reason, and now that I look back at it all my girlfriends that I've had over the past 4 years ended up being my girlfriend after being "friends with benefits" for a couple of weeks.
But she was different. She was special. I forgot how it was to feel scared when you talk, thinking "Am I going to say the wrong thing?" Having butterflies in your stomach everything you are near her yet never wanting to leave her presents. She is the person I always thought I never had a shot with, until I got enough courage and went for it.
I spent so many years of my life living in a world thinking that so many things where beyond my grasp. But now I know that there is so much in front of me, within arms reach. Would I do things differently knowing what I know now? Hell yes, but the past is the past. I can only go forward.
I don't know how she feels about me, and in a way I'm glad about that. Its time I did something where I know its not a sure thing. To quote Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, "Is she worth it?"
Yes, yes she is.
It is amazing how spending time with your family will make you think.
It is amazing how just going for it will make you think.
It is amazing the stuff you think of when you do not say a word for two hours.
Thinking, spending time to analyze your thoughts. It's simply amazing what you think about.
I just went to go see Click! with my family (minus Robert because he is at a Spain reunion with a couple of buddies). It was one of those movies that shock you. Shock you because it was good, so good that your mind bursts into a million thoughts that you have been suppressing for quite some time. You start to look back at what has passed you by. You remember things that happened years ago, things you promised to do but never got fulfilled. Things you wish you had; love, companionship, true happiness. You wonder if you did one thing differently would where you are now change? If you did something differently would you be with that one person who you know would return the love you project towards them? Should you take a break and watch the world pass you by for just a little while? What do you do?
I did one thing that I never thought I would do; I went for a girl that I thought I never had a shot with. For the first time in my life I wanted a real relationship. I wanted to get to know her, spend time with her, go slow. Toph and David could not believe it, me not wanting to sleep with a girl till I got to know here. I never had a problem finding someone for that reason, and now that I look back at it all my girlfriends that I've had over the past 4 years ended up being my girlfriend after being "friends with benefits" for a couple of weeks.
But she was different. She was special. I forgot how it was to feel scared when you talk, thinking "Am I going to say the wrong thing?" Having butterflies in your stomach everything you are near her yet never wanting to leave her presents. She is the person I always thought I never had a shot with, until I got enough courage and went for it.
I spent so many years of my life living in a world thinking that so many things where beyond my grasp. But now I know that there is so much in front of me, within arms reach. Would I do things differently knowing what I know now? Hell yes, but the past is the past. I can only go forward.
I don't know how she feels about me, and in a way I'm glad about that. Its time I did something where I know its not a sure thing. To quote Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, "Is she worth it?"
Yes, yes she is.
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Monica: Camping For The First Time
This past weekend I took Monica camping for the first time. Now I know what your thinking, how can she be 17 and have never gone camping? The answer is simple, my dad spent a majority of his youth camping and my mom grew up in Mexico. So when we were young we did other things for family vacations.
After picking here up in Marysville we left for Chester. Up highway 70 to 89, some of the most beautiful country you will ever see, we were there.
Our destination: Butt Valley, more specifically Butt Lake.
I would go into more detail on how it was and what we did, but I feel that the pictures say it all.
Saturday, May 27, 2006
A Happy Night
Right as I walked in the door Panda gives me a call.
"Blake, Toph wants to go out with Erick and I. Can you come?"
Here are the pictures to describe the time I had. Oh the fun. . .
"Blake, Toph wants to go out with Erick and I. Can you come?"
Here are the pictures to describe the time I had. Oh the fun. . .
Believe it or not this is Toph, dancing. Yes, dancing at the Bear.
I love it when you bump into people on the dance floor.
From left to right: Topher, Lindsey, Jada, and my self.
After leaving the Bear, we all headed down to the U Bar. After getting another round of drinks, and really starting to feel the effects of the Stop Light that Panda got me, I knew I needed to get a picture. So here I am with my Panda. All liquored up.
And now for everyone's favorite, the aftermath. Well we all puked, everyone did. I even managed to get a little of it on Erick! God bless him for taking care of us. It's 11:20AM and Panda and I are about to get some food. We're fine, right as rain.
Toph on the other hand is hurting. Hurting like a dog that just fought a rabid snow lion in the backwoods of Mississippi. My prayers are with him.
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Man, I Stumbled Into This One
After having a BBQ lunch at Erick house, I decided to walk home. It was a beautiful day, I was feeling good, Toph left earlier to play some WOW, and Panda went on a ride with Erick. I love walking through out Chico, you notice so much of the town when you are taking you time to get from point A to point B.
"Hey! Where do you think your going!?"
I was walking past Joe's Bar, it was Veronica, and today was here 25th birthday. So what did I do? I joined the party.
"Hey! Where do you think your going!?"
I was walking past Joe's Bar, it was Veronica, and today was here 25th birthday. So what did I do? I joined the party.
I love Chico's drink prices. I started a tab at Joe's and the U Bar. When everything was said and done I only spent $27. Not bad to liquor myself, Veronica, and Vanessa. Plus I found a new drink that I like. It's called a "Quick Fuck," and its made with Mellon, amaretto, and Irish cream. Quite tasty and only $3.50.
In the end I bounced before everyone left for LaSalles for more drinks. Happy Birthday Veronica, and thank you for letting me join the party, I had a blast.
Saturday, May 13, 2006
My Summer Goal
Today Panda and I went to the Honda Motorcycle dealer to look at some bikes.
This is what I found; a perfect starter bike!
It's the Honda Rebel; small, light, and not to much. For only $3,500 out the door, I could totally have one by the end of the summer!
This is what I found; a perfect starter bike!
It's the Honda Rebel; small, light, and not to much. For only $3,500 out the door, I could totally have one by the end of the summer!
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
A Real Life "Thank You For Smoking"
About two months ago, I noticed and advertisement in Newsweek from American Spirit, which happens to be the only brand I smoke. It was an offer for a FREE carton of cigarettes. Being an occasional smoker, I thought to my self "what the hell," and sent in for it.
All I had to do was mail them a copy of my driver license (both sides), a check for $6 to cover shipping and handling, a completed survey (question #1: What is your name?), and 5 upc's from any brand of cigarettes. I guess that's how they prove you are a smoker.
Well, on Monday it arrived. I will admit I was excited, and perfect timing to boot. I was about to go and buy another pack of blue. I opened the package and to my surprise there were two, yes TWO full cartons. That over $90 in American Spirits!
Here is what they sent. From right to left:
Now what am I going to do with a pack of non-filtered cigarettes?
Sunday, April 30, 2006
Sunday, April 23, 2006
The World Lost A Great Man Today
My Grandpa Rogelio
December 1958 (3 years before my mom was born)
1937-2007
March 26th, 1937 to April 23rd, 2006
I awoke to a phone call this morning. It was my mom. Being a Sunday, and Robert's 21st birthday, I thought she was calling to remind me to wish him a happy birthday. I was wrong.
"Blake, my dad just died."
That's all it took. I jumped out of bed, called in to work telling them I would be out for the next couple of days, and I was off. Topher came down with me which helped me because I knew I would not be alone.
Four years ago, when he was healthy as a horse, he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease. In four short years that disease robbed him of his body and mind, but not his soul.
The one thing I will always remember about my grandpa is how he was my interpreter growing up. We would go up to Weed and visit for weeks at a time. He was the only one outside of my mom and aunts that could speak english. At the time my grandma did not know any english, and Nora being young was always away at her friends houses. He loved history, geography, and always had a good joke and an amazing story about his life growing up.
I love you grandpa, I hope you know that.
December 1958 (3 years before my mom was born)
March 26th, 1937 to April 23rd, 2006
I awoke to a phone call this morning. It was my mom. Being a Sunday, and Robert's 21st birthday, I thought she was calling to remind me to wish him a happy birthday. I was wrong.
"Blake, my dad just died."
That's all it took. I jumped out of bed, called in to work telling them I would be out for the next couple of days, and I was off. Topher came down with me which helped me because I knew I would not be alone.
Four years ago, when he was healthy as a horse, he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease. In four short years that disease robbed him of his body and mind, but not his soul.
The one thing I will always remember about my grandpa is how he was my interpreter growing up. We would go up to Weed and visit for weeks at a time. He was the only one outside of my mom and aunts that could speak english. At the time my grandma did not know any english, and Nora being young was always away at her friends houses. He loved history, geography, and always had a good joke and an amazing story about his life growing up.
I love you grandpa, I hope you know that.
Friday, April 21, 2006
Thank You For Smoking: A Breath Of Fresh Air
Last night Panda and I went to go see Thank you for Smoking. It was a great film that all in all pushed the message that you, yes you, have to make up your own mind on the issues in front of you.
That's all I'm going to say about the movie. You have to go see it for your self. I promise you that you will not be disappointed.
Monday, April 17, 2006
Reflecting @ Upper Bidwell
By spending most of my day at work and school, I knew I needed to get out and enjoy the wonderful break in the weather. So I headed to Upper Bidwell Park to be out in the sun, away from all the traffic and the sounds of the freeway.
You know the should invent a tripod for cell phones. I'm all the way at the end of this concrete wall. I love listening to the wind blow across the tall grass.
...What can I say, there ducks...Chico ducks...swimming in Horseshoe Lake.
Nothing special. It's a lone white oak in a sea of green.
The nice thing about Bidwell Park is it's huge. As a matter of fact it is the third largest municipal park in the US. Here is the lone Middle Trail.
I love this area and Loomis after the long rains, everything is so green and the land is full of life.
Saturday, April 15, 2006
Living Life In The Fast Lane!
Are you ready to race?
Easter Sunday will be Monica's 17th Birthday. So to start the celebration Panda and I took her to Pluto's for lunch. When we were done with our meals I asked her what she would like to do.
As you can see she chose wisely.
What we have done today:
On a side note, Panda has never done any of the above things. Monica and I have not done anything like this since I lived at home.
All I can say is we are having a blast!
Monday, April 10, 2006
Happy Birthday Stephanie!
Happy 21st Steph, you finally made it. I know you do not read my blog, but I just wanted you to know that I wish you an amazing birthday. I know you are going to be hitting a lot of bars today, so have fun. I would tell you to be careful and not to drink to much, but I know you are with friends and you only turn 21 once. So go crazy and have a blast!
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
Something Afoot!
During an ice cream run after school today, Panda and I walked into Heel and Sole Shoe in Chico. We were waiting for 6 o'clock to roll around so it would be buck-a-scoop night at Baskin Robbins.
I came across this, a shoe and a bottle of beer. What is a shoe and a bottle of beer doing in a shoe store?
It's a pair of flip-flops with bottle opener on the bottom of each shoe! I mean come on. . . they actually made a flip-flop with a bottle opener on the bottom of the shoe! Plus their convertible to boot. I still can't believe it, but at $40 a pair, and lots of designs to chose from, I know I must get a pair.
I came across this, a shoe and a bottle of beer. What is a shoe and a bottle of beer doing in a shoe store?
It's a pair of flip-flops with bottle opener on the bottom of each shoe! I mean come on. . . they actually made a flip-flop with a bottle opener on the bottom of the shoe! Plus their convertible to boot. I still can't believe it, but at $40 a pair, and lots of designs to chose from, I know I must get a pair.
Sunday, April 02, 2006
A Look Back
What's to drink?
Spring Break 2006
March 12, 2006
Location: Kitchen of our condo, Kihei, Maui.
From right to left: Robert's hand on the blender (contents: strawberry margerita) Jason, Bottle of Kona Longbord Lager, six-pack box of Kona Longbord Lager (which you can now buy here, on the mainland, at Safeway), Bottle of Maui Dark Rum
What Do Tim, Uncle Fred, And Steve All Have In Common?
I am amazed on how quickly people enter your life. You get to know them, you start to enjoy their company, then all of the sudden they vanish like a fart in the wind. (e-mail me with what movie that last line was from and you could win a prize)
Take Tim for example. Panda met him and fell in love. We had him over for dinner, and at the end of the meal he was gone.
Tim's uncle Fred came over when we were back in Chico. He had a ruff life and traveled a lot around Maui and California. How he wound up in Chico he doesn't even know. But a friend of Tim was a friend of ours. He came over for a drink or two, and before you knew he was gone.
Then there was Steve. Now unlike Tim and Fred we knew Steve for a while. As a matter of fact I think Jason and I met Steve in Safeway on Nord during a late night beer run. I would bump into him here and there, never knowing his story. One night Panda and I were home alone and getting hungry. As I was about to leave for Safeway (about 100 yards from my front door) I bumped into Steve again. Unlike previous times were we would just say "hi, how you doing?," we actually had a conversation. Steve is your basic farm boy. Born and raised on the farm with a huge, and I mean huge family. He came to Chico because, to be honest, it was big city living. I knew I had to end the conversation soon (Panda + hungry = mad Panda) so I invited him over for dinner. And like everyone else before him, when the meal was over, he was gone.
All three of them were great individuals. All of them had great stories and great personalities. Yet from the start we all knew that a life long friendship could never happen.
Why?
Because they were all food products. Tim and Fred were Maui Pineapples and Steve was a farmed Rainbow Tout. What can I say, I love to cook.
Take Tim for example. Panda met him and fell in love. We had him over for dinner, and at the end of the meal he was gone.
Tim's uncle Fred came over when we were back in Chico. He had a ruff life and traveled a lot around Maui and California. How he wound up in Chico he doesn't even know. But a friend of Tim was a friend of ours. He came over for a drink or two, and before you knew he was gone.
Then there was Steve. Now unlike Tim and Fred we knew Steve for a while. As a matter of fact I think Jason and I met Steve in Safeway on Nord during a late night beer run. I would bump into him here and there, never knowing his story. One night Panda and I were home alone and getting hungry. As I was about to leave for Safeway (about 100 yards from my front door) I bumped into Steve again. Unlike previous times were we would just say "hi, how you doing?," we actually had a conversation. Steve is your basic farm boy. Born and raised on the farm with a huge, and I mean huge family. He came to Chico because, to be honest, it was big city living. I knew I had to end the conversation soon (Panda + hungry = mad Panda) so I invited him over for dinner. And like everyone else before him, when the meal was over, he was gone.
All three of them were great individuals. All of them had great stories and great personalities. Yet from the start we all knew that a life long friendship could never happen.
Why?
Because they were all food products. Tim and Fred were Maui Pineapples and Steve was a farmed Rainbow Tout. What can I say, I love to cook.
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
Sprig Break 2006. . . No, Wait. Spring Break 2006
Ok, I know I have to finish the story on Tim (Panda's Hawaiian Lover) and post on the week in general. But first things first.
Last year, the TSA and FFA banned all lighters and matches on flights. By doing so the Zippo market collapsed. All the sudden you were able to buy a $50 lighter for only $10 bucks. So what would a cigar/cigarette smoker like me do? Simple, I bought the legal carry-on limit (the limit is two per person) for myself, Steph, and Panda. All in all I bought 4 lighters (4 because Steph and I each brought a lighter with us).
Well to make a long story short I decided to get one of them engraved. On the front it's engraved "Spring Break 2005," and on the back is all our names ("Blake, Stephanie, Panda, Kevin). I thought this is a nice little tradition I started, so from then on out, every time I go on a big trip with my friends I buy a Zippo where ever we are at, and when we come back to Chico I have in engraved.
I must have spent countless hours searching all over Maui for a Zippo 2 weeks ago. I found nothing. Knowing that I was coming home empty handed I decided to get one of the lighters from last year engraved. You know "Spring Break 2006" on the front, and "Blake, Stephanie, Panda, Jason, Robert" on the front.
Well, I went to go pick up the lighter today from Things Remembered at the mall. There was the lighter, all out names on the back, and "Sprig Break 2006" on the front. Notice anything? SPRIG BREAK!!
So what now you ask? Well thank God that the Zippo had a brushed nickel finish. They are going to take it to a jeweler and see if they can buff it out, and then re-engrave it.
All in all I now have my doubts about getting irreplaceable items engraved. I'll be happy once everything works out. But for now, I play the waiting game.
Last year, the TSA and FFA banned all lighters and matches on flights. By doing so the Zippo market collapsed. All the sudden you were able to buy a $50 lighter for only $10 bucks. So what would a cigar/cigarette smoker like me do? Simple, I bought the legal carry-on limit (the limit is two per person) for myself, Steph, and Panda. All in all I bought 4 lighters (4 because Steph and I each brought a lighter with us).
Well to make a long story short I decided to get one of them engraved. On the front it's engraved "Spring Break 2005," and on the back is all our names ("Blake, Stephanie, Panda, Kevin). I thought this is a nice little tradition I started, so from then on out, every time I go on a big trip with my friends I buy a Zippo where ever we are at, and when we come back to Chico I have in engraved.
I must have spent countless hours searching all over Maui for a Zippo 2 weeks ago. I found nothing. Knowing that I was coming home empty handed I decided to get one of the lighters from last year engraved. You know "Spring Break 2006" on the front, and "Blake, Stephanie, Panda, Jason, Robert" on the front.
Well, I went to go pick up the lighter today from Things Remembered at the mall. There was the lighter, all out names on the back, and "Sprig Break 2006" on the front. Notice anything? SPRIG BREAK!!
So what now you ask? Well thank God that the Zippo had a brushed nickel finish. They are going to take it to a jeweler and see if they can buff it out, and then re-engrave it.
All in all I now have my doubts about getting irreplaceable items engraved. I'll be happy once everything works out. But for now, I play the waiting game.
Thursday, March 23, 2006
There's Something About Tim: A Quick Post
I know that I still have to post about our week in Hawai'i, but first I must tell the story of Tim. It was a warm Tuesday afternoon. An afternoon Panda would never forget; the day Panda fell in love with a local.
We drove to the Costco in Kahului to get some film developed, pick up some cheap hamburger meat, and to buy a snorkel set (the one I bought at Sharper Image finally broke after 4 years). It was around the meat department, no, the produce section where Panda noticed him.
She knew that he was the one for her. Here, right in front of her was the one hookup she wanted during spring break.
Shyly, looking right at him she asked "What is your name?"
He simply replied "My name is Tim."
I will have to admit that at first Tim was like all the others I have seen. You know, very generic and stereotypical for a native. But once we all got to know him we knew what Panda saw in him. He was special.
Tim grew up on Maui, born and raised at the base of the West Maui Mountains. He came from a big family (who, after seeing pictures, all look the same), enjoyed the weather that only Maui had to offer, and loved playing in the rain.
We all couldn't resist, so we asked him over for dinner. . .
Well I must be of to campus, I'm meeting Panda for lunch. I'll finish the post after school.
We drove to the Costco in Kahului to get some film developed, pick up some cheap hamburger meat, and to buy a snorkel set (the one I bought at Sharper Image finally broke after 4 years). It was around the meat department, no, the produce section where Panda noticed him.
She knew that he was the one for her. Here, right in front of her was the one hookup she wanted during spring break.
Shyly, looking right at him she asked "What is your name?"
He simply replied "My name is Tim."
I will have to admit that at first Tim was like all the others I have seen. You know, very generic and stereotypical for a native. But once we all got to know him we knew what Panda saw in him. He was special.
Tim grew up on Maui, born and raised at the base of the West Maui Mountains. He came from a big family (who, after seeing pictures, all look the same), enjoyed the weather that only Maui had to offer, and loved playing in the rain.
We all couldn't resist, so we asked him over for dinner. . .
Well I must be of to campus, I'm meeting Panda for lunch. I'll finish the post after school.
Monday, February 27, 2006
A Look Back
Spring Break is fast approaching! Only 2 weeks left untill we are there!
The Most Beautful Sunset I Have Ever Seen
Family Vacation July 6, 2002
Location: Kamaole Beach, Kihei, Maui
The Most Beautful Sunset I Have Ever Seen
Family Vacation July 6, 2002
Location: Kamaole Beach, Kihei, Maui
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
Starbucks Has All The Answers
Now I drink a lot of coffee. And out of all the coffee cafe's in Chico Starbucks is by far the best. Recently they have been putting commentary on there cups, you know the kind of commentary that warrants a disclaimer at the bottom. Well today's "The Way I See It" was by far the best.
And here it is. . .word for word.
The Way I See It #61
Imagine we are all the same.
Imagine we agree about politics, religion and morality.
Imagine we like the same types of music, are, food and coffee.
Imagine we all look alike.
Sound boring?
Differences need not divide us.
Embrace diversity.
Dignity is everyone's human right.
~ Bill Brummel
Documentary filmmaker.
His programs focus on human rights issues.
Now that's a good cup of coffee.
And here it is. . .word for word.
The Way I See It #61
Imagine we are all the same.
Imagine we agree about politics, religion and morality.
Imagine we like the same types of music, are, food and coffee.
Imagine we all look alike.
Sound boring?
Differences need not divide us.
Embrace diversity.
Dignity is everyone's human right.
~ Bill Brummel
Documentary filmmaker.
His programs focus on human rights issues.
Now that's a good cup of coffee.
Saturday, February 18, 2006
Drunk @ Jack's
What do you do when you've drank to much and your in downtown Chico? You head to Jack's of course!
This one is of Kevin. He is trying to remember how much he had to drink. He never remembered
A Night @ Normal Street
From Left to Right: Kevin, Jason, Katrina, Me
We're all just a little intoxicated...and it was great!
Monday, February 06, 2006
Friends And Religion: Part Two
I finally got a response. Mailed Feb. 4th, 2006 @ 3:54PM
"Blake, drop it already. There is a reason I haven't brought it up all
these years. You won't change how I see Catholicism or other
religions. I try not to press it on you, so don't force my hand.
The reason i didn't post this to your blog was because I couldn't get
to it - the server isn't responding."
I think your missing the point. You forced our hand. Do you think we like having you come up here as our guest to tell Panda and I that we are going to hell. That we're catholic because our parents are? That the Bible we read is wrong?
Do you think I enjoy the fact that you went through Panda's room searching for a Bible, and when you came up empty you told her that we she is loosing her faith because doesn't go to church as much as you do? Who are you to question our faith in God? Who gave you that right?
You know where to send the key, C.O.D. it for all we care.
"Blake, drop it already. There is a reason I haven't brought it up all
these years. You won't change how I see Catholicism or other
religions. I try not to press it on you, so don't force my hand.
The reason i didn't post this to your blog was because I couldn't get
to it - the server isn't responding."
I think your missing the point. You forced our hand. Do you think we like having you come up here as our guest to tell Panda and I that we are going to hell. That we're catholic because our parents are? That the Bible we read is wrong?
Do you think I enjoy the fact that you went through Panda's room searching for a Bible, and when you came up empty you told her that we she is loosing her faith because doesn't go to church as much as you do? Who are you to question our faith in God? Who gave you that right?
You know where to send the key, C.O.D. it for all we care.
Saturday, February 04, 2006
You Can't Leave Without A Tour T-shirt
Ticket: $20
T-shirt: $20
Having one "cantelope" good time: Priceless
Religion And Friends
Apparently I was raised differently that some of my friends when it comes to religion. I was always taught to be proud of who you are, yet respect other beliefs. For me, I am proud to call myself Roman Cathloic. But there is one thing that alienates me more than anything else, being told I'm not good enough for God.
Matt, this post is for you.
We all have our own unique beliefs and religions. But where do you have the right to preach that your on the winning team when no game is being played? We are all told that we belong to the one true religion, that the way we worship God is the only and right way your suppose to. You know we are all getting tired of being put down for who we are. We should be ashamed of being Cathloic? Panda should convert to Protestantism so she could accepted into your family. What kind of horse shit it that!
According to the U.S. Census Bureau 2004-2005 Statistical Abstract of the United States, Page 55, Question #67, there are 159.5 million self identified Christians in the United States.
Out of that 50.8 million are Cathloic, the largest of the Christian Religions, and only 9.5 million are Lutheran, and according to you there are non-Lutheran Lutherans, and true Lutherans. Not to mention the fact that the Roman Cathloic church is over 2000 years old, a church that the Lutherans left in the 16th century. If you are part of the true religion how come you account for only 6% of the total Christians in the US? How do you like being put under the microscope?
You know what else is sad, knowing that your going to hell. Sound familiar, that's what you tell us every time your up here. Yep, that's right, you and every other non-Cathloic in the world has a one way ticked south simply for not believing in the one holy Cathloic and apostolic Church. Especially you, for preaching the wrong word and trying to convert his children. Now doesn't all this sound narrow minded.
We were taught to be true to our self and respect others. I'm Cathloic because I choose to be. Panda is Cathloic because she chooses to be. Are you Lutheran because your parents are? That's not a polite question to ask is it?
It is not my job to turn others to Catholicism. Its not my job to preach, to convert, to tell people that they are wrong. For all we know we are all wrong and Buddhism is the way to go. You can't force people to believe in what you believe, when they are ready they will come to you.
Matt, your a good friend, and I love you like a brother. But, you are not the same person I grew up with, hell your not the same person we gave the key to.
We don't know who you are, we need our key back.
Matt, this post is for you.
We all have our own unique beliefs and religions. But where do you have the right to preach that your on the winning team when no game is being played? We are all told that we belong to the one true religion, that the way we worship God is the only and right way your suppose to. You know we are all getting tired of being put down for who we are. We should be ashamed of being Cathloic? Panda should convert to Protestantism so she could accepted into your family. What kind of horse shit it that!
According to the U.S. Census Bureau 2004-2005 Statistical Abstract of the United States, Page 55, Question #67, there are 159.5 million self identified Christians in the United States.
Out of that 50.8 million are Cathloic, the largest of the Christian Religions, and only 9.5 million are Lutheran, and according to you there are non-Lutheran Lutherans, and true Lutherans. Not to mention the fact that the Roman Cathloic church is over 2000 years old, a church that the Lutherans left in the 16th century. If you are part of the true religion how come you account for only 6% of the total Christians in the US? How do you like being put under the microscope?
You know what else is sad, knowing that your going to hell. Sound familiar, that's what you tell us every time your up here. Yep, that's right, you and every other non-Cathloic in the world has a one way ticked south simply for not believing in the one holy Cathloic and apostolic Church. Especially you, for preaching the wrong word and trying to convert his children. Now doesn't all this sound narrow minded.
We were taught to be true to our self and respect others. I'm Cathloic because I choose to be. Panda is Cathloic because she chooses to be. Are you Lutheran because your parents are? That's not a polite question to ask is it?
It is not my job to turn others to Catholicism. Its not my job to preach, to convert, to tell people that they are wrong. For all we know we are all wrong and Buddhism is the way to go. You can't force people to believe in what you believe, when they are ready they will come to you.
Matt, your a good friend, and I love you like a brother. But, you are not the same person I grew up with, hell your not the same person we gave the key to.
We don't know who you are, we need our key back.
Friday, February 03, 2006
Looking For Signs During A Troubled Week
Have you ever looked at a cigarette burn when the wind blows? It burns in layers. Evenly burning as the gentle wind carries the smoke into the distance. As you stair into its red glow you notice that its progression towards the filter is never ending, aided by the wind. The wind is time all around us, the red glow is its affect on us, the cigarette its self is our life. Time affects us in more ways than we would like to admit it. At first we feel that we can do anything, that first puff. Then we take another drag, and another till we feel that high. We are in a place where things start to make sense. You look down, your almost at the filter, the end of the road. Do you savor what is left or do you throw it away?
Friend come and go. Relationships begin, then fade away. Puff.
Friend come and go. Relationships begin, then fade away. Puff.
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