Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Mark & Stacey Lange....Part 1

The Alarm Clock goes off....

It was time for Sara to get up. Girls, during a wedding, have to get up really early so they can have 123,328 bobby pins put in their hair. This was cue for Jon and I to get a complimentary free (redundant?) hot breakfast. I immediately wish America a happy birthday....Jon says he was just about to say that. Mark and Erik wanted us to get them up for said breakfast. They don't seem pleased when I call them...then knock on the door.


Happy 232nd B-Day America

So, we are sitting eating what is to be a poor free breakfast, and most free hotel breakfasts are, and we realize it is the United States of America 232nd birthday, thanks to our collegiate math skills.....yeah. Mark reminds me that I, as best man, am responsible for booze, and water, for the in between the ceremony and the reception. Now, I am not sure if Sara has ruined my first major responsibility by stealing the rings, but I am confident in this alcohol task. I have been known to make sure people drink beer, and or booze...so I was very very confident in this task (though concerned about my lack of monetary funds after the weekend before....the tux...the gift....the gas.....the weekend before....and the weekend before. Next time I am in charge, the bachelor party comes weeks before the wedding (especially if it is in another state), just redick how broke I was.

Woodmans = Cheap Booze

Jon, who declared himself as the Assistant to the Best Man the night before, and I, travel to Woodmans for some beer and booze. Now, let me take you back to wake up time. When we wake up, we ask Sara if she is ok with some Dr. for a shot liquor on the limo. She tells us that no one....NO ONE! likes Dr. McGillicuddys. We didn't believe her, but then Mark tells us during b-fast that he too dislikes the liquor of the gods. Ok, back to Woodmans. Jon and I want to get the 1.75 of the good Doc, but after our two convos with our friends, decide on the small bottle and a bottle of Apple Pucker for all the panzys. We also get a case of Miller and Coors (Lite/Light).

Proud to be an American

Back to the room, hitting the noon hour, not sure any guy is really showered, but there was history to be made. Joey Chestnut, was trying for a repeat of the Nathan's hot dog eating championship. We all respect Kobayashi, but he represents the bombers Pearl Harbor.....Japan, plus he has tendinitis of the jaw. We also are confused/excited by the Wii eating game. The thing is, the time was limited to 10 minutes, compared to the normal 12. Umm, of course, USA BABY! Joey, the hot dog machine, WINS! Today was going to be a good day. Wait, what? Mark asked if I got the water for Stacey...SHIT! I got it afterwards, thanks to a nearby grocery store.

You Ever Seen 5 Grown Men in a Hot Tub together?

No, this didn't actually happen, so, please read on.

After I finally hop in the shower, it has been foretold, by a piece of paper which had times of things to happen...we, as in the guys, were to dress in the same room. This seemed oddly gay to us all, but Mark had us all in the room of future love making (I hope), for some tuxedo dressing. We remembered the pastor told us to eat, so we delayed the dressing for some food. Problem, our procrastinating ways limited us to time. I, being the hotel connoisseur, remembered about the hotel room service, brilliant. Some want mozz sticks, some want wings, some, well no one cared really. I ordered an appetizer sampler, the lady said it would be there shortly....shortly....umm, limo will be here soon......we watch a lady look for a lost golf ball, and a guy go back and forth over the green....no food. I call, WAIT, food is here. We huddle to eat the bounty, and it was good. Someone (forgot who, sorry) asks Mark if he is happy that his final single meal is an appetizer sampler.....I think it is a fitting bachelor type of meal personally. We chow down, as we are not worried about messes as we declare it is ok to climb in the hot tub together, or the dual shower heads (we kid of course). Food down, tuxes on, beer grabbed (forgot about 12 cans in the hustle). We hop in the limo, drink a few beers on the way....followed by a round of the Doctor to make our breath minty and fresh.

OH, FYI, Sara did not steal the rings...I was now in possession of more than my life! Stay tuned....



Wednesday, July 09, 2008

Mark & Stacey's Wedding - Prologue

July 3rd, 2008

The day before the big day. Kusch and I were to arrive in Appleton to pick up our tuxedos that were sure to make us look like...we were dressed in tuxedos. Anyhow, we had to leave early in the morning to make sure we arrived on time, and we had to pick up one Sara Jane in Grafton. The trip was, alright, nothing too epic here, but we did eat Atlanta Bread and I rather enjoyed it. Jon and I also made fun of the south a lot...that was neat.

So, we arrive and my pants were designed for nonfat people and Jon's coat was just not right, so we would have to come back at a later time, but whaaaaaat to dooooo for hours. The girls were all on a girl lunch, and wouldn't let Jon attend because apparently it was for some club, of girls.....or something. To the point! The original plan was for Mark, Jon, and I to go golfing, but it was sort of warm, Kusch was hungover, I was tired, and really, we just didn't want to. How were we to spend Mark's final afternoon of singledom? If you answered drink, or go to nearby Beansnappers, you are WAY wrong, we had ourselves a Jr. High type of day.

Fun w/o Drinking?? It can happen to you too if you follow your dreams

We kept the golf idea alive, but miniaturized the whole idea. Well, we didn't have the idea, or miniature any golf course, but there was a mini-golf course nearby and there was no stopping us from going. The course was intense (not really), for there was the possibility of losing your ball on the first hole (nope, these balls floated...miracle style). It was actually a lot of fun and we were all golfing about the same, I was consistently average and Jon & Mark had some hot streaks with a blow up here and there....this was going to be a tight one. The winner is....more on that later.

After we finished up the mini golf, we went to get some tokens for the batting cages (the place was a whole funland center). This was a lot of fun, I learned that I need batting gloves when swinging bats with little grip left on them. I also learned that I can consistently ground out to 3rd when hitting a 60 mph fastball. I also know that Jon can hit 80 mph.

The next stop at the Badgerland Sports Complex (I think) was the Go-Karts. It has been a long time since I have been in a Go-Kart, and frankly was nervous I wouldn't fit. I did, thankfully but I think I almost strangled myself with the seat belt. We all talk a bit of trash, and after we had some instructions to not horse around and ram into each other, we were off. Don't get me wrong, but every cart seemed to move exactly the same speed and we stayed the same distance apart, sort of, anti-climatic. We did at the end get to lap a woman, that was neat. It was fun still, and we had another ticket, so we hop back on. This time, there will be an epic moment. We were off, I was trailing Mark but was right on his ass, drafting, mind you. Then my moment came. Up ahead I spotted a woman and her kid in a dual kart, and they were moving slow. I was able to sneak on an inside corner getting to the side of Mark and then wham, he had to slow down for the slow lady. MWA HA HA! Eat that groom to be!

I should also note that we also all played some Skiball and other games that give you tickets. I suggested that we just give our tickets to some kids, but Jon snapped me out of my idiocy and we joined forces to get a hackey sack and TWO sets of vampire teeth (totally designed for kids by the way, but Jon and I still rocked the shit out of them)!

Finally we return to Stacey's parent's house to pick up Sara and drop off Mark, then we are OFF...to the hotel to check in. We all get ourselves looking mighty fine and once again are OFF...to the church for rehearsal. This is where I am handed the rings to protect and keep.....because apparently Mark and Stacey think I am responsible.

Guys, note, if you want to scare your future wife at the rehearsal, just laugh hysterically while practicing the vows. Good one Mark (though those in the crowd said he seemed the laughs were to hold back tears). I pretty much nail my practice runs because I am neat.

AND WE'RE OFF...to dinner at Frattello's. A really neat place right on the river. The dinner was put on by Mark's parents and I want to send a thank you. The menu was filled with fancy stuff and a cheeseburger. Mark, gets the cheeseburger (to be fair, he got it for the waffle fries, which were AMAZING). A few of the people got a blueberry beer, and we all decide that watching blueberries go up and down with the beer bubbles is indeed neat.

After dinner was over, Mark and Stacey stood up to say a few words about everyone in the wedding party, and it was very touching, I am being honest, I thank you guys a lot! Also, the mug and the jug of beer was awesome! While at the table we discussed what was to take place for the evening. Were we to get drunk, go to nearby Beansnappers...NO!

AND WE'RE OFF (sorry)....to the hotel pool. Erik (Mark's brother) and I had poorly planned and had to make a Kohls run for some board shorts. After quickly getting ready we head down to, what seemed to be paradise (or just a neat hotel pool). There was a slide, which we of course all slid down 'illegally' . The centerpiece was the 3-way basketball hoop, or a pole that had three hoops right in the dead center of the pool. The hoops were really small and hard to make because they were tall as well. Of course, we form teams. Jon and I vs Mark and Erik....winner was first to 5 (really hard to make), any of the hoops counted. This was really epic, the battle went on for hours, well, hour....maybe not even, and injuries were to be had (Erik developed a blister on his foot). In the end it was Jon's pure shot and my height advantage which really, yeah, really wasn't fair. Still it was 5-4.

It was time for bed, I proceed to tell Sara that if she steals the rings that I will be very upset at her and she will have ruined the wedding.

Stay tuned to see if Sara steals the rings and ruins the wedding.....oh, Mark won mini-golf 50 to Jon and I's 51




Saturday, July 05, 2008

Mark's Bachelor Party

Jake summed up this evening pretty well in his blog. Well worth the read:

CLICK HERE FOR STORY


Up next, Mark and Stacey's wedding

Tuesday, July 01, 2008

Inner Thoughts and Latest News - #1

7/1/08 - Ok, so I was managing my posts, and came across this one that I was slowly working on throughout last year. Sort of forgot about it, but I don't want my efforts (how poorly they may be) go to waste, so enjoy.


For those that know me, you know that my mind is sporadic and random. I figured, what a better way to capture my often fleeting thoughts than with a blog. This blog will last until I feel it too long. This may take a week, two, maybe months. I will try to date everything and comment on whether or not I was drinking or not. This is sort of for myself though as well. I also will probably put my latest news in here as well. So...enjoy:

4/25/07 - In North Carolina - Chapel Hill

- Strangest thing just happened to me when trying to buy some brew. I am staying at the Holiday Inn with UNC theme, it is pretty neat,a nd I ate dinner at the Time Out Bar and Grill here at the hotel. I had a few drinks, but was sad that they had no local microbrews on tap, so I had some Sam Adams White Ale, having never tried it before (I like wheat based beers). I was intrigued that the bar's main special was bottles of Natural Light for $2.50....of course I thought to myself, that is no bargain at all...end of story, or is it? Anyhow, after lubing my throat up, I thought I would grab some more beer for the hotel, after all the Brewers just lost to the Cubs, and I needed some support (haha). I look up the closest liquor store, just a mere .2 miles (this is a college town after all). I roll up, walk in, walk around, look confused, walk around again, read every door...NO BEER!?!? The guy at the desk senses my confusion and asks me what I am looking for, then looks at me like I am an idiot when I ask for beer. He tells me that I have to buy beer at a grocery store or convenience store, then tells me that a grocery store is just down the block. So, a liquor store with no beer...a liquor store, literally. I go to this grocery store, which I should mention was the worst smelling place I have ever, EVER, been....like no one there wore deodorant, terrible. Anyhow, I walk around, find the micro brews, good, find a huge wine selection, good...walk, walk......where the hell is the normal beer? I grab a 6er of micro brew because I like to try the local flavor (saddened to find out I grabbed a Colorado beer). I ask the cashier, where they keep normal beer, like a case of Miller or something. He looks puzzled and says they have never sold that, maybe a case of Pabst one time. I comment that I have just been to a liquor store with no beer and a grocery store with only wine and microbrews. After checking my ID, he says "yeah, you definitely aren't from around here. TO THE CONVENIENCE STORE!! Ok, normal beer, nice, what do I want.....I glance at the window sticker special..$9.54 12 pack of Natural Light....ok, this town has an infatuation with quite possibly the worst beer ever. 6-er of Coors Light, and I am out.

-Ben Sheets was saddened to hear about his DL buddy Mark Prior being out for the season, and quickly removed himself from the game in hopes of joining him.

4/26/07

-After driving around the south enough times, I am officially sick of seeing the damned Confederate flag on cars...or anywhere for that matter. From now on, I roll my eyes whenever i see it. Stupid white trash, racist, retards.






Sorry, been sort of busy, back to it






6/15/07 - Cottage Grove


-Quotable - Tina - I am not even that drunk...I can still swallow






6/19/07 - Dallas




-This city is stupid to drive in






This is of course a sad story, but thanks for letting me know she was excited to have a baby....I would assume most expecting parents are.




- I heard on the radio today that Paris Hilton is reading self help books.....thanks radio for wasting my time.


July 31 - Atlanta


-It is really nice to hang out with Giddee, it has only been a month since last seeing her, but it oddly feels like longer. Anyhow, I was telling her of some stories of past travels, she told me I should keep a journal because of some funny stories I have encountered, which I have. I think this is a good idea, I might buy a notebook and write a journal when on the road. I will then move the good stuff to my blog, this of course reminded me it has been a while since I have posted a blog because I broke my personal laptop.


-Guess what this week is on the Discovery Channel...Shark Week. Honestly, I am sick of sharks, do something else, Lion Week......Tiger Week, hell I would watch Seal week! I am learnign for the 3234th year now that sharks bite humans from time to time, but mostly will not, yada yada yada


- I hate Atlanta traffic, it is so busy at all times, and downtown has like, 32 lanes on each side. The funny thing is, I seem to be the overly aggressive one, everyone is so scared to merge until they have like a 12 car length space


Reason 323 why I hate Florida


Florida optical-scan voting machines still flawed, report finds


Seriously Florida, it is your messed up voting that got us GW in the first place. You are trying to get too technical. No other state seems to have problems. Plus, don't half of your citizens probably have glaucoma or something because they are so damn old?


- Giddee and I brought up the "Greatest Story Ever Told" yet again, making me truly believe that our group St. Louis trip could honestly be, the greatest story ever told.

Monday, June 30, 2008

Myrtle Beach 2008

A Prelude

So, while Mike and Andrea were on their cruise in April, touring stops in the Caribbean, I got really jealous and ticked off that I wasn't on a beach somewhere. For those who know my line of work, I often find myself near an ocean and make it a point to head to the ocean if possible. The problem with that is, I am still on a trip for work, not vacation. I wanted a week of pure vacation, and to share said vacation with someone or some people.

I jokingly send an e-mail to Kristen saying let's go on a trip. She, every bit as frustrated with our company, says she will as long as I am not joking. I was, but, here was my chance for a trip, I agree and we begin to discuss location. I have a free flight and plenty of Holiday Inn points to try to make this a cheap trip. Even though I am sick of Florida, when it comes to just wanting to lay on a beach and then have some night life...Florida is king. If I went, it would the Ft. Lauderdale region. I've been there, nice weather, nice beaches, good nightlife. However, after looking up flight prices for Kristen (I would've been willing to pitch in), it was determined we should go somewhere driveable. At this time, gas was a cheap $3.60ish (barf) and with my Ion getting 33-35 mpg Hwy, it would be affordable. We both conclude that Myrtle Beach, SC would be a fun trip. South Carolina is one state I had never been to, and well, she has been to few places...and we both had people tell us it is a neat area. We decide the week, 6/15-6/20.


An Epic Journey Begins

Early on Sunday, June 15 we pack my car and set off on the open road. Knowing we have approximately a 17 hour trip, we decided to get little more than half way there and call it a night. Anyways, you know when you start a long trip, you are excited. You have been waiting for a month, and now it is time. the problem though, is there is a ridiculously long drive ahead of you and the thrill wears off, right about when you hit the Chicago traffic and its never ending construction. And for anyone who has driven South into Indiana from Chicago will know how krazy (yes), you will go after you see 500 straight Krazy Kaplans billboards. KRAZY KAPLANS is a fireworks store and I know they have 3 for 1 deals. The funny thing is, right before you get to the KRAZY KAPLANS exit, there is a billboard for another fireworks store, saying 3 for 1 deal, next exit. I am a spiteful person, and if I was going for fireworks, would totally stop at the 'other' store. KRAAAAAAAZY



You know what state sucks...Indiana. yeah, enough said.

We briefly touch Ohio in the Cincy area, then back into Indiana because apparently the state won't leave me alone. But shortly after we get into Kentucky, we are officially in the south now. Let me tell you something. Driving through KY and TN is scary. Should it be, probably not. But I had a conversation with Matt, Jake, and Jon on how Wisconsin could be one of the more stereotyped states, but not nearly as bad as KY and TN. The people you meet there never really help their cause either. Back to the point. After 10 grueling hours (I drove the whole way for some reason) we arrive at the hotel in Caryville, TN, just north of Knoxville. It was a really nice Hampton Inn, I was impressed. We, immediately crash.


Myrtle Beach!

After 7 more hours of driving we arrive at the hotel, Coral Beach Resort. I have my $500 worth of hotel credit card I can use thanks to my many stays at hotels, I use said cards for a total of $130 stay for a whole week (noice) and then we are off to the room.


The hotel was pretty cool actually, and I was not exactly sure what I was going to get. They boast like 10 pools, lazy river, sports pub, comedian, magic acts, beach side bar and grill, bowling alley, convenience store, breakfast buffet area.....well, the amenities are plentiful to say the least. When we opened our door to our room, the first thing is, it is a large room and we have a patio with a view of the ocean. It said angle-view, but it is pretty good!


After unpacking and filling the fridge with our beer and booze, we decide to get some food. On our way in there was this nice looking Mexican restaraunt. It was tasty, the margs were delish, and that is that story. The problem though is, after spending all day in a car, then eating tons of Mexican and drinking a couple margs, we were beat! She tried to drink another beer, I drank like 3 more...but the will to get drunk was with neither of us. We decide to walk around the hotel and check out what it has to offer. What we found was that the bar next to the beach has karaoke every night.....definitely be hitting that up later.

Tuesday AM, we go get some breakfast then make a break for the ocean. I grab a couple of beach chairs they had set up, we lay down for about 30 seconds before we decide we have to go in. The water was perfect, the waves were large enough to have fun, but small enough to not knock you around. The salt, was, well, extremely painful on the eyes, but eventually we got used to it. After a couple hours of fun in the sun (and after the lifeguard kicked us off the chairs because we were supposed to pay for them, it was lunch time, and poor Kristen had never been to a Sonic, so yeah, guess where we went. She, like everyone else, falls in love with their slushies....so f'ing amazing! When we got back it looked like some rain (storms were to move in), so we mixed up some cocktails in the room, sat on the porch, and watched as the storm moved in and out. I will say, watching lightning over the ocean is a really neat thing. After everything settled down and the sun came back up, we went down to the beach bar and grill, had a burger, grabbed a table and watched as the karaoke began to sound up the night. Both of us were feeling pretty good and we started playing a game called, "Would you do that person". The idea of the game is to say if you would, well, do the person (according to gender) who came on stage to sing. There were different levels too. "I would do that person sober/buzzed/drunk/blackout/never". Now, many of these people were southerners, and well, rednecks to put it nicely. If you know a thing or two about redneck people, it is that the girls can be oddly attractive, older women never are because eventually the sun's harsh rays and the years of smoking eventually take their toll....and all the guys look like white trash. So, I decided I won the game, as I would do more people. We then take a drunk dip in the ocean.


Hard Rock Park


Wednesday we decided we were going to go to this brand new amusement park that just opened up, Hard Rock Park. Kristen is a big Led Zeppelin fan (I also enjoy), and the parks main attraction was, Led Zeppelin the ride! After we finally got out of the main room that had two unfunny guys pretending to do Wayne's World, you started your 'experience'. It moves you into a room that starts playing 'Whole Lotta Love' music video. The doors then open and you proceed onto the ride, the whole time the music is still playing. once seated, they start you up the lift, and one really cool feature is that the cars have speakers in them, so you are jamming to Zeppelin as you are pulling some serious G's around 6 awesome loops.



There was this Moody Blues ride, and well, I know what it is like to trip on acid. It was actually pretty neat. They give you some 3D Chronograph glasses and instantly all this trippy painting pops out at you. While waiting in line there is this tunnel that spins around you with lights. I had to take off the glasses and close my eyes because motion sickness was rapidly setting in on me. Hard to explain the ride, it moved slow, the glasses made everything 3D and, it was a simulated acid trip to put it best.

The Eagles - Life In the Fast Lane, Coaster had the same speaker set up, but the ride was completely gay, as was the rest of the rides they had. It is a new park, and I am sure they will be adding rides as years go by. It was neat, and we watched a BMX show, but overall, I would wait a few years when they get some more rides. they do have a large stage and have acts play every night too, but, we had to go drink some more as the 95 degree sun was making us thirsty.


Round 2

Well, a nap was first. All day walking in the heat, wore us out. BUT! we woke up and debated going to the bar scene downtown. We decided against it, as it cost more money, wastes time, and is just a hassle. We had so much fun the karaoke night, we decide to do it again. We order some pizza for dinner then head down. This time we had a spot at the bar and first this old dude buys us a beer, nice. Then this guy I am sitting next to asks if we want their bucket of long island. I agree only because he offered us this because his wife was cutting him off the sauce for the night. He tells me there is something added......this scares me, but I proceed to drink the free booze. Kristen and I tried to sneak this guy shots everytime his wife got up, but she has to be the fastest woman bathroom goer ever! Anyways this guy tells me since I am in SC, I am a southerner now. I agree and talk with my best southern accent I have, hoping he wouldn't punch me....he laughed thankfully.

Now, this old lady had warned Kristen about some guy making a 'mess' in the women's bathroom. So, as she was walking to the bathroom later, she was joking with some guy about what she might find and told him the story of the 'mess'. The guy laughs and admits that it was him. Apparently he had to go bad, and the men's room was full.

Now, I opened a tab this night. We only bought 6 beers, but we were doing shots. Kristen likes shots, so we did all sorts of things, JD, cherry bombs, who knows what else. I told Kristen to put drinks on my tab, but she apparently paid for all the shots w/o me knowing. So, when I closed my tab I was astonished that none of the shots were on my tab, just 6 beers. i proceed to tip $7.50 for 6 beers thinking he gave us free shots. dummy!

Then things get bad. I wake up, in the bed, throwing up all over the floor next to me. Spend some time in the bathroom, go back to bed. I wake up to find my pleasant treat I left next to me bed. Get sick again, and for the 3rd time in my life, throw up the morning after. This day was officially going to be shot! Well, maybe not, I start to feel better and we go to the lazy river, but after about an hour lounging in the river, I feel bad again. We decide I need food. We go to this homestyle looking place, boasting they are American owned.....umm, ok. The lady said all the food is home-cooked. I am not sure what that means, as we are in a restaurant, did they make it from home then transport it...that would be gross. Well, that was a joke, this next line is not a joke. Worst food I have ever eaten, and we'll leave it at that. Here is a picture, DON'T EAT AT THE COUNTRY KITCHEN IN MYRTLE BEACH (not part of the chain)



Finally at night I feel better. We decide to take it easy as we decide to drive straight through on Friday. We went to a nice steakhouse, shot some mini-golf and called it a night. (How come mini-golf places dye their water kool-aid blue?)


Are We There Yet?

nothing of note, just a long, looooooooong, drive home.

Wednesday, June 04, 2008

It feels like June in Anchorage

More like, June in Juneau!
Seriously, what is going on. I went to the Brewer game last night just to freeze my arse off while doing some tailgating with some fine refreshing Miller products. Thankfully the Miller girls recognized my hand being cold on my beer and delivered me a can coozie to keep my poor frigid hands off of the cold aluminum container.

Bill Hall? More like, Boo Hall!
Maybe, Bill Hall should have thought about possible reaction around Milwaukee before he had his agent come out demanding a trade because of the platoon Billy has found himself in. Someone should let Hall know that we are no longer in the "developmental" stage, we are in the winning stage, and we are in no position to mess around with a guy batting below the Mendoza line against right handed pitching! Ned Yost finally made a move that is geared towards winning now, and not trying to make everyone happy, and benched Bill against righties, good for Ned! I was at the game last night and happily booed whenever Bill Hall was up to the plate, whenever he struck out, and even when he got a hit. Ah well, Milwaukee needed someone new to express their disdain for. Bill Hall is the new, less talented Gary Sheffield! Let's just hope he doesn't purposely chuck a ball into the stands!

You stay classy Brewers faithful
I do have to admit, I am very proud of the Brewer fans giving Randy Johnson a nice ovation after he left the game. Randy had passed Roger Clemens on the all time strikeout list to move into sole possession of 2nd place. It's always nice to hear the following from a future hall of famer (talking about MKE fans): "One thing I won't forget in my career is the crowd," Johnson said. "Walking off the mound to get a standing ovation like that, as a visiting player, that meant a lot. That's pretty classy, and I won't forget that."Hats off to Randy! He has many accomplishments, 2nd all time in strikeouts, a no hitter, and his fastball is actually lethal (to birds at least)!




Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Pewaukee - Whitewater's Newest Suburb

Last Sunday, over Memorial Day weekend. Mike and Andrea decided to christen their new place of residence with a good old fashioned flip cup tournament and cookout. I was excited for a couple of reasons. 1) they live just minutes from me 2) saves me money ($5 for beer and food) 3) I haven't had a good all day drunk for some time.

It was supposed to start around noon, so I showed up around 12:30, not wanting to be the first there. The good news is, I wasn't. I pulled in to the drive to see Mike's dad's Inifnity. The bad news, he left shortly after Andrea announced she was going to leave to pick up a beer bong. Which was sort of funny she says that with Mr. Brixius standing there.

One good thing about being first, was the keg had yet to be tapped. It has been years, literally, since I tapped a keg, and it felt goooood. The crowd started to show up shortly after, Justin & Angela, Jonny, Streich, Leah and friends, MVG, NH, Julia, Devonna. Others would show up a little later as well to keep the party going with fresh livers. There was some ladder golf, horsehoes, and of course tables for the flipping of the cups. It was sad though when we all wished we had a set of bags....then a light goes on in NH's head "wait, I have a set in my car!" The party was complete.



There was no real tournament of sorts, just people playing as they wished. I started off right where I finished the weekend in Whitewater, terrible. Thankfully this wasn't survivor style and I was able to regain my composure after a couple of attempts. Well, everyone was getting nice and lubed up, Andrea had started the beer bongs, Matt, Brent & Jess, and Leslie showed up. I started playing a game of dirty balls (ladder golf) just to not ever finish the game. I think we just sort of forgot about the game because we were too focused on getting our BAC up. During this whole stage is really where my memory is fuzzy. I remember laughing a lot...trying to convince Leah that we should have sex, and I remember it becoming dark. Mike's old neighbor dude brings his dog Mandy over to visit her new friend Steven....who attempts to get on Mandy, who is 4 times larger than Steven. Ummmmm, don't worry, my memory will come back strong as I apparently have slowed my drinking down quite a bit.

Anyways, night falls, and the barrel is cached out. Mike makes a run to the liquor store for some fine, high quality 30 packs of, Beast/Icehouse Light/Natty Ice. Mike then gets a lighter out, determined to start a campfire. Some have already left, Andrea was passed out. I think that maybe I should help, but then I feel some rain and decide against it. Mike stays trying to light something with the lighter wand. It is a futile attempt and we all trudge inside and down to the basement.

Not sure how this started, but Jonny and I ended up in a bit of a wrestling match. After I forced my sheer weight into a victory, Streich decides he is game for an ass whooping. Now Streich is a scrappy guy, trying to use his quickness in what he lacks in weight. Eventually I am able to take him down, but not without consequence. In the heat of battle I burn both my knees up pretty badly on the carpet. Thankfully I was able to leave me and my A+ blood on Streich's shorts. That way he can remember about how a guy weighing twice his weight took him down.

Here is where things start to get good.

Mike, passes out like, a turtle on his back Jonny C starts to make the corner of the basement his resting place for the night. Streich, MVG, NH, Julia, and I watch some TV. Some infomercial commercial thing comes on for a scooter, that looks like a bike. We all agree that a scooter that big is a really stupid idea. If I was going to get a scooter, would I not just get a Razor, so it would be portable and light? I decide to call this company and tell them about their retarded bike/scooter. However, their number had no one live, just computers wanting my credit card info. Onto the next commercial....Male Enhancement (not enzyte). This is too good to pass up. I call them up to what sounded like a young female (probably a college job she hates) on the phone asking if I want my free sample. I, truly curious, want to know if it really will make me 'larger'. She says in a straight voice, serious and whatnot, no, but it will make you firmer. I decide that I am plenty 'firm' enough (aka, didn't really want a sample or to give them my card info). This becomes the joke of the night amongst us five, about how firm I am. Even when it made no sense.

The TV bored us, and I honestly could have hit the sack at that point, but I was forced to go to Boomers, the bar near Mike's place. FYI, here is me being forced:

Dustin, let's go to Boomers

Nah, I'm tired

C'mon

Ok


I then attempt to force Jonny to the bar, by shaking him. Which naturally, pisses him off. I give up on that endeavour and we journeyed to the bar. I am not really sure what time it was, but I am guessing around midnight.

I take a seat at the bar, MVG orders up a round of drinks, and we have some fun. Some guy next to me asked me my name..my answer "fucking awesome". Apparently this guy thought this was hilarious and proceeded to give me a shot that he did not want, a snake bite. They really aren't as bad as this guy portrayed it to be. And I have had plenty in my day.

We move our sorry selves to the electronic bags game, where I quickly lose interest. Streich though finds the dark complected player, and decides it looks exactly like him. I pick the chick, because I would rather look at a computer chick ass, than a computer guy ass. Everyone then talks about some pool player and me talking, buit I don't recall such an event happening. This really short bartender then calls bartime, and Streich and I plead for one more drink, but to no avail, we were being booted. She did though hand us a free drink poker chip for our next visit to Boomers.

Bar time, the night would seem to be over, right? Incorrect, we were still thirsting for more, and crack into the terrible beer supply at Mike's. Well, on our return home from the bar, we noticed a house across the street from Mike's seemed to be having a party. We grab some beer and walk over to this house hoping they let us in for a rocking good time. They do. One minor problem, this is an obvious High School party. Some of Pewaukee High's best and brightest, I am sure. One of the first things we see is some douche rocket with his shirt off and hat tipped to the side bragging how he just had 26 shots. This of course, was extremely laughable, because if he did, he drank a lot of Pucker. The best part is, after (who I named shirtless) said this, this kid who appeared to be passed out on the couch fires up and proclaims he too drank 26 shots. Not impressed I challenge Shirtless to a shot off.

At this point, all I can think about is how in Beerfest the guys went to a high school party to "Mix it up a little bit" in order to play drinking games for practice. Then, after I made the challenge for a shot-off, I thought of the episode of
Fresh Prince where Will drinks shots with the college's star football player just to get wasted and dream about dead people. I, however, was not concerned with ending up like young Will Smith.

So, Shirtless, goes to the liquor cabinet to find something, looks for a while, then just walks into the garage like nothing happened. Streich and I, determined to play a drinking game walk into the garage to see them playing beer pong...this we thought was going to be fun. The problem is, apparently kids in Pewaukee have too much money as they were playing for $20! Streich just looks at them in disgust and says "Yeah, we normally just play for the drinks". We head back inside.

I am in the shot mode now, and decide to dig through what I can only assume to be one kid's parent's liquor cabinet. Nothing good. Creme De Cacao, SAN JUAN RUM!!! REALLY?!?!, and then a saw some Grand Marnier. I pull the bottle out but was stopped by the one guy who was older than us. I am hoping he was an older brother. He does after a while give us a shot of the Grand Marnier.

Megan, Nicole, and Julia, decide to change their names, so no one would actually know who they were. The problem with their theory is they used each other's names, so there was still a Megan, Nicole, and Julia, just on different faces. They then decide to give Aaron a new name as well, Juan. This does not please Aaron, and he shows everyone his ID that his name is actually Aaron. This prompts one of the girls to show us her ID, and her last name is the hollowed name of Toth. Streich and I naturally ask if she knows the honorable B.Toth, she does not, we were sad. We wonder what B.Toth was doing at that moment, and figure that he is somewhere being honorable.

Shirtless comes back in the kitchen, convinced that Aaron was his drivers ed instructor. Aaron denies vehemently that he did not...which leads to Shirtless continuing to swear on his life that he taught him how to drive. What is funny is, Aaron obviously did teach him, as he taught drivers ed for years before the 'scooter incident'.

Our buddy's name, Conor, was a pretty cool kid I think. Normal, not douchy, not an idiot, and his name reminded Streich and I of Conor Jackson. We of course tell him, that if he was in fact Conor Jackson, he would be a pretty pimp 1B player for the Diamondbacks. The kid had a shirt, which he said he designed and made, of a bat...so, I call him Batman (as you can tell, I am very original in my naming at this part).

I am saving the best part for last. For those who were there, you were wondering where this tidbit was, well, here, well, the next paragraph.

There was this girl, who I learned her name was Britney. I don't want to sound mean, because she was very drunk, but she seemed your typical blonde bimbo. Every time she walked into the room I would say hi. I think she was impressed that I knew her name and kept saying hello. Eventually it became pretty obvious that this girl was digging me. Now, when I was in high school, I don't recall it being so easy to get the good looking girls, maybe she was impressed an older man knew her name, not sure. Well, I was playing along, and it was fun, but it borderlined statutory when she came over and sat on my lap (she was supposedly 18 actually, but still, not playing this game anymore). I raise my hands to signal I was having no part of this, she eventually moves on. At one point in the night I was talking to Streich and turned around to a chicken nugget dipped in BBQ about 3 inches from my face. It was a perfect turn around, not knowing there was a person, let alone a chicken nugget right next to me. I shoot a look of shock and confusion as Britney fed me that chicken nugget. It was pretty darn weird.

Eventually we get booted and carry on back to Mike's. I am sure those kids are talking about how the 30 year olds all showed up. We woke Mike up, cooked some cheeseburgers, and then went to bed. Not in the best place to add pics, but I am going to steal some off my facebook eventually.

Dustin Info
Location - 40 miles outside of Indianapolis and approaching. I am currently riding shotgun in a truck with a wireless card.

Wednesday, May 21, 2008

A Whitewater Weekend

Last weekend I traveled to good old Whitewater for some old fashioned fun(getting to literally mean 'old' fashioned...soon, not yet), to celebrate MVG and Streich's commencement from the University of Wisconsin - Whitewater. They too, will now feel the joy's of a world that doesn't give you summer vacations and where drinking is limited to 1 or 2....maaaaybe 3 nights a week if you're feeling adventurous. The obvious perk though of graduating is the sweet newsletter that shows up at your door to see if they randomly killed off anymore of your friends who are actually alive. I still say it is a miracle Jonny, if a fine institution like UW-Whitewater thinks you are dead, and then you aren't....well you sir, performed a miracle. Two more of those and you have saint written all over you!

I first stopped at Denny's to have a beer with the very goateed Peter Meyer, who apparently is waiting for 1995 to return. After the beer it is off to the party. The party was at Megan's place on Caine, which I was honestly pumped for. It had been a long time since I hung out with the EEE girls, and I was having Sigma withdrawal and I think they missed me too, or they better have!

I don't think it is a coincidence that the moment I showed up, the parentals left. They saw a kid, who had some obvious drinking experience...literally saw the beer gut and the alcoholically aged complexion. First up, after the cheese curds and what tasted a lot like cowboy potatoes, was some flip cup action. At first I was on fire, two flips was devastating to me. As we started up a game of survivor flip cup I was feeling good. However, after our team started to lose, I seemed to be the one that always got to drink the extra cups......then, tragedy struck. It took me about 10 flips on one of my cups, thus sealing my fate in survivor flip cup. I then remember NH telling me some news that made me happy.....then

TIME TRAVEL

So, suddenly I am at the Pub. I wish I could transport like that whenever I wanted to, but it seems to happen in WW only. Scientists should check that town out for some crazy radioactive elements or something.

Anyways, the Pub. I was doing my normal harassing of the bartenders. Trying to buy them shots every 5 minutes and asking why no one was around. It was 9:30 and they can't drink until Midnight. The beauty of the Whitewater bars, as most of you know, is the affordablity. I was low on cash and had just ordered 3 shots. I had $7...........anywhere else this would not cut it, and I was nervous about having to make a mid-shot ATM run. Naturally, $7 was enough money for those shots in WW. Then this girl had some fingernail polish and she wanted to try it out. So, my right hand was soon adorned with 3 shiny pink fingernails, oh goodie (more on those fingernails).

WHAM, I am at Pumpers. ew. What did I deserve to be transported to such an awful bar. I bump into an old Arrow buddy...we talk about stuff I am sure.

Now I have been magically transported to the Downstairs looking for friends who I have apparently lost. Then I get a magical idea, go order Rosa's and keep dialing away for friends. I have been calling NH now many, many times on my blackberry with no answer. Why the blackberry, because naturally, I lose people and my phone with most of my numbers on it dies. This leaves NH has the only relevant person in my phone for where I am supposed to sleep. I decide to take a break from my nonstop calling so I can enjoy my Italian Beef, where else, but on the street corner. Yes people, I had my dipping sauces conveniently placed on the sidewalk and chowed down to the looks of concerned drunks.

I then was struck with an idea, go to my car, charge my phone so I can call some people. GENIUS! I walk to my car (a 5 minute walk from where I was to sleep that night), and then I time traveled again. This time I was placed in the back seat of my car crunched up in the little Ion. I was shivering, just to find a hoodie laying next to me (not on me). Then my neck hurt a lot, and I found out a jug of window washer fluid had made for my pillow that night.

Well, what else am I to do at this point but drive home, 6 am.

Back to the fingernail polish. My friend Kristen was supposed to bring some remover over for me, but she fell asleep and never delivered. This left me going to work the next day in the office scraping furiously with my keys and a pen cap to get the shit off. I can't get it all off before I have a big meeting. I proceed to hide my right hand the entire time......then I found a dollar.

Anyhow, if you've ever been to Whitewater, and I know all 4 of my readers have, then you know that this is just a typical night, it is called being Whitewater Drunk.....and this sort of drunk is not acceptable in any other city that I know of.

People, do not let your kids go to Whitewater, I know I won't.


Current Dustin Info:
Location - Buffalo, NY
Song stuck in my head for weeks - Bon Jovi - Someday I'll be Saturday Night
Clothing - License Plate Boxers (picture that people)
TV Program Watching - American Idol finale (first show watched since auditions)
Favorite thing heard today - "Monkey wants my burger" (Red Robin commercial)
Food Ate Today - Panera for lunch and chicken parm from the hotel for dinner

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Where in the hell is Callahan Auto Parts?

Greeting folks from Sandusky, Ohio!

Yes, I made like young Tommy Callahan and left Milwaukee for Sandusky for a job I would rather not do. Differences obviously, I didn't graduate Marquette, I don't work in Sandusky, and my dad isn't a millionaire.

What would I like to do? I would like to go to Cedar Point and ride roller coasters. But noo, I have to drive a truck and trailer for work.

Yes, my company loves to let me drive a large pickup truck with a 24 ft trailer around the country, and yes, they know I want nothing to do with this damn trailer, I was never hired to drive a trailer, and let me stress again, I hate this trailer.

The trip wasn't actually too bad, it was a sunny day and it was all interstate. The problem, so far up to $50 in tolls, with more toll roads to come. Sure, I get paid back, but it will be in the end of July. I need this money now for my trip to Myrtle Beach in a few weeks.

Funny story. While driving through Chicago, one of the toll booth workers yelled, I mean, YELLED, at me. Why? Because this man who obviously hates life, mumbled some number that no one would be able to understand. See, I don't know what they charge me when I have the trailer, as they don't really post that shit anywhere visible beforehand. Anyways, I ask politely what he said, and he yells, extremely pissed off $2.25!!!!! This at first seemed to tick me off, but then really made my day. For some reason, that guy snapping at a toll booth, amused me.

Tomorrow though, I head to Buffalo....but don't worry folks, home on Friday around noon! (via airplane)

Thursday, May 08, 2008

Obama in '08, Butteris in 2020

Yep, a Political Blog

I received in e-mail the other day from a co-worker who apparently was unfamiliar with my political beliefs and who I am voting for. Below is the e-mail, my comments will be in bold, the email in italics:

Subject: The Obama Tidal Wave


> I'm so afraid to vote and so afraid NOT to vote, but this sure doesn't
> sound like a solution to me!!!!
>

> Subject: The Obama Tidal Wave>

> We are witnessing a political phenomenon with Barack Obama of rare
> magnitude. His speeches have inspired millions and yet most of his
> followers have no idea of what he stands for except platitudes of
> "Change" or that he says he will be a "Uniter".(I believe Bushie boy claimed he was a Uniter)
>

> The power of speech from a charismatic person truly can be a powerful
> thing.

> Certainly Billy Graham had charisma and both his manner of speech and
> particularly the content changed millions. On the extreme other hand,
> the charisma of Adolph Hitler inspired millions and the results were
> catastrophic. (People like Billy Graham, and now Pat Robertson are part of the major problems of this country, talk about people following blindly, and yes, I am a Christian)

>
> Barack Obama certainly is no Hitler or a Billy Graham, but for many
> Americans out there feeling just like a surfer who might be ecstatic
> and euphoric while riding a tidal wave, the real story is what happens
> when it hits shore. Just Some of What Defines Barack Obama:>

> . He voted against banning partial birth abortion.>

> . He voted no on notifying parents of minors who get out-of-state
> abortions.

> (I don't touch the abortion issue, no way am I getting involved on this)

> . Supports affirmative action in Colleges and Government.
(This is a program designed to help, but it needs to be scaled back a little bit. However, it is probably necessary in certain areas still, so, no problem to me

> . In 2001 he questioned harsh penalties for drug dealing.
(First, you have to look at his constituents, South Chicago. Also, unless there is violence, let's not crowd our jails, especially if it is Marijuana)>

> . Says he will deal with street level drug dealing as a minimum wage affair.

> . Admitted marijuana and cocaine use in high school and in college.
(Good for him, we all have past demons...Also, George Bush, cocaine...yeah, let's not be hypocrites)>

> . His religious convictions are very murky.
(Says who? The man is a Christian. His pastor went crazy, sure, but that isn't an issue to me)
>

> . He is willing to meet with Fidel Castro, Hugo Chavez, Kim Jung Il and Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.

> . Has said that one of his first goals after being elected would be to have a conference with all Muslim nations.

(What is wrong with diplomacy? As Kennedy said, "Let us never negotiate out of fear. But let us never fear to negotiate.")


> . Opposed the Patriot Act.
(Just because the word Patriot is in it, doesn't make it good. It infringes on citizen's constitutional rights...good for Obama to oppose this shit Act)

> . First bill he signed that was passed was campaign finance reform.
(Sounds good to me, that shit is getting out of control, Hey Republicans, McCain is your nominee...let us not forget the McCain/Feingold act)
>


> . Voted No on prohibiting law suits against gun manufacturers.
(The one thing I am not a huge fan of his is he has wants increased gun control, which isn't a bad idea, but goes against the 2nd Amendment a little bit. Once again, jsut remember, he represented South Chicago in the IL Senate, where guns are out of control)
>

> . Supports universal health-care.
(I would say this to be a good thing)

> . Voted yes on providing habeas corpus for Guantanamo detainees.
(Just because Georgie can't pronounce Habeas Corpus, doesn't mean we should disregard a part of our Constitution)>

> . Supports granting driver's licenses to illegal immigrants.
(Well, one license works for like, 23 people. Ok, that was bad, but funny)
>


> . Supports extending welfare to illegal immigrants.

> . Voted NO to making English the official language of the USA.
(Remember, this is a free country, do, speak, commerce, as you please)
>
> . Voted yes on comprehensive immigration reform.

> . Voted yes on allowing illegal aliens to participate in Social Security.

> . Wants to make the minimum wage a "living wage".
(Our minimum wage sucks, people can't 'live' off of it)

> Voted with Democratic Party 96 percent of 251 votes.
(Well, I guess he is a Democrat..shocking)
>


> . Is a big believer in the separation of church and state.
(I love this one...Separation of Church and State is right in the constitution!)
>

> . Opposed to any efforts to Privatize Social Security and instead supports increasing the amount of tax paid.
(I personally wouldn't mind privatization, but let's face it, it isn't going to happen)

> . He voted No on repealing the Alternative Minimum Tax.>

> . He voted No on repealing the "Death" Tax>

> . He wants to raise the Capital Gains Tax.
(Not sure, but isn't this a rich person tax?)

> . Has repeatedly said the surge in Iraq has not succeeded.
(Worst War, EVER! He is right)

> . He is ranked as the most liberal Senator in the Senate today and that takes some doing.

> If your political choices are consistent with Barack Obama's and you
> think that his positions will bring America together or make it a
> better place, then you will probably enjoy the ride and not forward this Email. If you are like most Americans that after examining what he stands for, are truly not in line with his record, it would be prudent to get off the wave or better yet, never get on, before it comes on shore and undermines the very foundations of this great Country.
(George W. Bush might have well spat on the Constitution, time for a change. I am riding this wave still)

Monday, April 14, 2008

My conversation with St. Peter

Alright folks, been a while and as Bernard so politely put it "If you die, you do not want your final post to be about George W Bush". Bernard, you are absolutely right, could you just imagine that conversation with St. Peter........awwwwwkward

St. Peter - Dustin, before I can let you pass the gates I just have to ask you a couple of questions. Now, you have lived a good life, but you were a frequent sinner, now nothing really bad, so don't worry, but, I have to ask you, techinicalites and such....What is your biggest regret?

Dustin - Well, I would have to say it was not updating my blog that has a viewership of 3-5 people. I ended it talking about George Bush.....I am so ashamed of myself.

St. Peter -
Really? That is what you are going to say. All you really had to say was something generic like, "spend more time with my family" "work with charitable causes", something like that and you were in like flynn.......but you regret not updating your blog, well, ok, here is a pamphlet on hell, I personally recommend the sauna there, it takes a little getting used to the scalding steam, but it does wonders getting the toxins out of your body......that you will get from the lighter fluid soaked burgers you will be forced to eat.


Yes, St. Peter says "In like Flynn" in my mind. I think a big reason for my lack of posting is I have not been carrying a camera with me anymore, thus if I post I either have to steal pics or write a text heavy blog. One goal of mine is to take my camera out again which should help with the blogging.

So, the truth is, I am currently in Hudson, WI waiting for the old people to get out of the fitness center so I can work out. Working out is going to be something I try on for size. I know I always say this, but I am getting to be a hefty hefty individual. After my last experiment I decided I have a hard time eating healthy or sticking to a diet, so I am going to try the other half of losing weight, working out. This actually doesn't bother me to do. in fact, once you get a routine going it is extremely easy. I have this philosophy that follows that of Celebrity Fit Clubber Dustin Diamond. Eat what I want, work out, lose weight...should work I figure. I actually have a couple of plans already.

1. Kick Sam's ass in tennis. Now, I've played tennis twice in my life, so Sam thinks she is going to whoop me, and she well may....however, until the mean time, I have to assume I am amazing.

2. Play Mike in tennis...once again, I have to assume I will be amazing. I rock at Wii tennis afterall.

3. Shoot some hoops with Peter. This will be a battle of a fat, out of shape Dustin against the smoker's lung of Peter......we might stick with horse for a while. Funny story right, Peter went to high school in Ithaca. A town not far from Highland that, get this, is smaller than Highland. We figure we played each other in actual organized basketball. I have to assume I stuffed the ball in his face and quite possibly dunked over him. No, I am sure of it.

4. I am getting a bike, and am currently looking for candidates to go biking on some trails or something. Let me know if you are interested, you can apply online or over the phone.

5. Walk with Kristen. She lives right by me, we both talk a lot about losing weight, we both agree now that it is nice we should walk the wonderful streets of Waukesha.

6. Work out when on the road. Which is currently what I am wanting to do now....stupid old people.

While waiting, I am watching How I Met your Mother. Amazing show. Now, I watched the first episode when it was first on, and I thought to myself "This is a good show, I should make this a regular show I watch" Of course, I didn't. However, last week, Peter gave me the 1st season on DVD...yeah, I was right, it is amazing. About a bunch of mid 20's friends that drink...cool. You should all watch it or else you are going to regret not seeing it and St. Peter is going to send you right to hell when that is your one life's regret....don't say I didn't warn you!


As I said, I am currently in Hudson, WI right next to the Twin Cities, I had to spend one night in WI to make it feel like I am sort of home, thankfully Holiday Inns always upgrade me to suite's if they are open, and I have this awesome living room, kitchen, and hot tub right in the room. Yes, after I work out, I am going to sit in that said hot tub and pray to god the cleaning staff uses ultra potent cleaning fluid, because I am sure people have done it in there....icky. Anyways, on my long drive up I stopped off in Black River Falls to visit fellow Lowlander Lauree. We went off to a Chinese Buffet (eat what I want and work out) and talked about a possible camping trip. Now, Lauree and that group of friends always have a big camping trip every year, last couple years I have not been able to attend, but this year I think I will. The date will be the weekend of June 8th or something. We both think Canada would be a good destination. We had gone years back to Canada to camp and legally drink at 20, and it was a great time. She informed me that other might not want to take the long trek, but she was at least hoping for the Apostle Islands, which would be every bit as sweet.

Well, that is enough rambling on for now, I have to see if the old people are done preventing heart attacks.

Monday, January 28, 2008

Bush's final State of the Union!

That sounds good doesn't it? The words, 'George W. Bush' and 'final' are together starting to become more frequent. No matter who wins the 2008 Presidential election, our country will be in a better position.

Anyways, I am going to actually watch this thing, as it came on after American Gladiators, and this seemed like a good idea. You will get live time blogging, similar to my Packer vs Cowboys game. Anyways, I am going to watch NBC's coverage.

8:05 - "Madame Speaker, The President of the United States"


8:06 - Brian Williams lets me know that they were debating if W. would wear a blue tie...he did.


8:08 - I wonder if Pelosi keeps her blinking levels down this year?


8:09 Dick Cheney scares me. I wonder if everyone cheered because it is Bush's final year? First sentence was legible.


8:11 - Pelosi is doing many half-blinks......like, non-stop. Dick Cheney is scouting who in the chamber he could kill with his thoughts, zero blinks on his end.


8:14 - First bad joke of the night. Bush says some people are happy to pay higher taxes and that the IRS accepts checks or money orders....Dems were not enthused.


8:17 - Clinton count - 1 ..... Obama count 1


8:18 - Clinton - 2


8:19 - Obama - 2


8:20 - Bush says reading scores are on the rise....if only he had that level of education when he was younger


8:21 - Obama - 3...also, first random black guy in the gallery. Ted Kennedy could be sober, but I doubt it


8:23 - I admit, I do like free trade agreements


8:24 - pronuciation error - traf-fuckers. He broke it up just like that too, amazing


8:26 - First sleeping old guy....seriously, that guy was out


8:27 - Obama - 4 Clinton - 3 (is Edwards here tonight, or is he being left out like always?)


8:28 - Bush wants us to be dynamic in science...he is still hoping for invisibility so he can check out the girls locker room....as am I.


8:31 - 2nd random black guy in the gallery. good lordy, some old lady has a ridiculous blue hat


8:32 - Ted Kennedy is struggling to read his program. He could be either old, or drunk....or both (FYI - I never said drunk is bad..I am drinking myself right now)


8:33 - By the end of the year we are doubling our border patrol.....more Larry's will be appreciated on my end, as long as he keeps simulating shooting people in the legs.


8:36 - Mentions of 9/11 - 1


8:37 - Mispronunciation - 'Terra'


8:38 - 2 military dudes seemed to look stunned when Bush said we are adding 200,000 marines


8:39 New mission was given to our soldiers in Iraq last year....work with the Iraqi soldiers and people, and attack terrorists in their strongholds. Now I am no military stragesist, but shouldn't we have been doing that from the start?


8:42 - I think they just showed Paul Ryan....go WI


8:42 - Clinton - 3.5 (Biden was the focus)


8:48 - Mispronuciation - 'Kurs' (Kurds)


8:53 - Clinton - 4.5


8:53 - 9/11 count - 2


8:55 - Bush is trying to protect his ass on wiretapping.....illegal wiretapping. Dems were remarkably silent. The Repubs can officially yell "yay"


8:56 - "More Freer" (free-er?) is that right?


8:58 - Far and away better than random black guy. Random black woman in traditional African garb with leopard print shirted kid. Just goes to show, all people love G.W.


8:59 - John Kerry = Lurch. YES!!! BOB DOLE IS HERE!!!! Bob Dole says, Bob Dole takes Viagra


9:01 - Mutton Chops count - 1


9:02 - It is over


9:03 - Obama - 5


9:03 - Brian Williams has said the word final what seems like 12309 times.


9:05 - Orange coated lady member of the house of reps said "You make me proud to be an American" I guess that is true. If that guy can spend 8 years as the world's most powerful man....anyone can. God Bless America!


9:09 - Mitt Romney talking about the speech....typical campaign rhetoric. blah blah blah, blah blah blah. Broken Washington, someone outside of Washington.....ok Mitt, way to bring that broken Washington/change, theme after Obama's Iowa win


9:16 - Democratic response is the KS governor. Russert called her a new style Democrat...we'll see what that means.


9:17 - She said we are not dems or repubs, but Americans first....weird how for many years, Washington has forgotten that.


9:18 - "This is not a democratic response, but an American response"...is this chick running for President?


9:20 - Is it bad to think that I bet she was a good looker when she was young?


9:21 - "I am the commander in chief of our national guard" Seriously, is she running for president? Commader in Chief is a strong statement, no matter how it is worded


9:26 - Clinton's time to talk


9:29 - Not one notable comment..same old same old


9:29 - Obama's turn


9:32 - My biggest like of Obama is his commitment to uniting red and blue states. The first to say it as well.


9:33 - It is over. good night!





Friday, December 28, 2007

HDTV - America's Solution to Environmental Awareness

So, my best christmas gift was one I bought myself, with a little help from Holiday Inn. See, I spend half of my life in a hotel room for work, and I try to stay at one or two hotel chains (Holiday Inn or Hilton properties). Well, I acquired some super points at the Holiday Inn and was able to receive $1,000 in Best Buy gift certificates. After some shopping around, I bought a 60" Sony SXRD 1080p rear projection TV. It is way too big for my apartment, and I love that fact.

Anyways, I finally went to Time-Warner and picked up my HD-DVR box. Because I am awesome, I got the upgraded box and all HD channels for no extra cost. I was quite dissapointed though to find out after I hooked everything up that Time Warner only offers up to 1080i. I feel sort of jipped, even though I am sure I won't be able to tell the difference on i or p. So, I get it all set up, get everything activated, and go immediately to the HD channels. ESPNHD - College Football...PERFECT! The Holiday Bowl with Arizona State and Texas was on. I was in awe. Now, I've seen HD plenty of times, but to have a system that is your own is just a wonderful feeling.

After the oohs and aahs of the brilliant colors and sharp clear edges, I realized, this game is sort of a blow out and not really interesting for me to watch, time to check out the other channels. I move on to the HDMov, movies in HD, nice! Tonight they were having a Rocky marathon, Rocky II was on at this moment. Trust me people, Sylvester Stallone is one guy you would rather not see crystal clear images of. Next channel...HDTNT had the Celtics vs Supersonics game on. I watched the pretty colors for a bit, but my ultimate distaste caused me to move on. The next was like, TBSHD or something, anyhow, Along Came a Spider was on. Great movie, I didn't feel like watching it or watching Morgan Freeman's spots in HD. A&E had some cops show on, they were in a trailer with some low class people, no thanks.

This leads me to Discovery-HD, the title was something I would normally just skip right over, but tonight was a night of "discovery" of my HD capabilities. It was called, Equator, or something. It was about the Asian rainforest. Seeing the trees, the light, the close up of these animals was one of the most spectacular things. It was fascinating, and as a bonus, I learned about the circle of life in the rainforest. As a double bonus, I got to watch a lot of monkeys. Of course, every story has to have a sad event. It was pretty sad to watch a tiger make a monkey his dinner. The announcer even said that the monkeys shouldn't be on the ground at that time of night....though I think he may have been forshadowing. Of course every story has to have some excitment, and there was this one point where a tiger lept out and caught this monkey....amazing! Also, in light of recent news, I am making a statement that tigers enjoy primates. Watch out people and monkeys!!

My point is this, I think HDTV will help more people watch nature shows, and they will learn more about nature, which is always a good thing.

The End

Tuesday, December 25, 2007

But why is the rum gone!?!

This is going to be a short, simple post. But, I just wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas!

Why the title? Because on this joyous of days, ABC has decided to air Pirates of the Carribean, the 1st one. The title, that is one of my favorite lines ever. I'll tell you what, Keira Knightley is drop dead gorgeous. That of course is no secret.

Once again, Merry Christmas, and I hope to see you all on New Years!

Thursday, November 29, 2007

I hate you NFL Network

I figured this would happen. The 10-1 Packers vs the 10-1 Cowboys sqaure off in about 15 minutes. As most of you reading this know, this game is being aired on NFL Network. For my friends in the Milwaukee area, yes the game is being televised locally, but the problem is....I happen to be in Seattle.

The hope was my hotel bar would have it, negative. Well, there are a couple sports bars down the road....nope. The closest is a farther drive than I really feel like going to sit at a table by myself withholding my game time emotions. I am pissed, I am disappointed, and I am sad. To keep me occupied now as I watch the GameCast I am going to do a blog as I find out what is happening. Remember, GameCast is slower than the game, so my time stamps will not be accurate for the most part as to when I witnessed it. I will also put it in CST.


7:08 - ESPN News is on and I am pulling up GameCast. ESPN News will be doing constant game breaks, so I won't miss any big plays, I just won't see them as they happen.

7:13 - Open a bottle of Henry Weinhard's Blonde Premium Lager. A micro-brew here in the Northwest, it is a Gold Medalist at the World Beer Cup for American Premium Amber Beer. Note, their regular beer was the Gold in American Style Premium Lager. Minus the premium, and that is the same award as Miller Lite. The problem is there are too many categories.

7:15 - Computer automatically switched to the GameCast....must be game time, how, unexciting

7:18 - After watching idly for 3 minutes, I now know Koren Robinson returned the kick for 29 yards. GO PACK GO!

7:18 - A first down pass immediately after the kick return....feels good to be lagged a bit. That or they ran the world's quickest play

7:24 - 3rd and 1 and they pass after Grant runs two hard runs...WTF?! I'll just argue there was interference. The yellow line's forward prgoress seemed to have been interupted. (not the first down line, the PAckers progress

7:25 - FG GOOD! 3-0 Packers






7:28 - Kicker made the tackle, that couldn't have been good. Also, ESPN News teases on their way to commercial, there was a score, was it Favre, was it Romo? Unless this thing is way behind, it was Crosby.


7:35 - Ok, this just takes forever, play, break, 3 plays happen bang bang bang.


7:36 - The blue bar is moving too far...eek. Also, GameCast hates 2nd downs.



7:38 - The bend don't break defense is succesfull again - 3-3




7:41 - ESPN News cracks on how this game has more points than Monday night's slopfest. That is funny. Apparently, NFL Network has some problem they can't release the video to ESPN after the play....gay


7:44 - Packers are the first team to punt....shit



7:48 - It appears the defense can't stop them


7:49 - If it is true that Romo cheered for Elway and the Broncos over the Pack in Superbowl XXXII, then I hate him


7:50 - Bend don't break - 3-6



7:54 - That is not good. Favre threw a pick. Romo is supposed to make the mistakes, not Favre.....UGH! I once again claim there was intereference.



7:55 - Owens is catching too many, looks like a Cowboy TD is imminent, they are on the 7 after a big pass. What is Harris doing?



7:57 - As figured, TD. *@#($ - 3-13




8:01 - We need a big drive here!


8:06 - The hotel internet is down. Everybody, do not stay at the Holiday Inn in Seattle next to the airport. These assholes deserve no one to stay here to piss me off like this. I could be writing this is vain!


8:07 - Thankfully ESPN News updated me to Grants long TD run. 10-13


8:09 - Internet is back. I also realized while I was struggling to get the net back, my friends back home were celebrating, that kind of hurt.


8:10 - 1st quarter is over. We got a good one. Just look at all these bars


8:12 - You have got to be kidding me!!!!! 10-20. Maybe we can get them to punt maybe once this game.


8:13 - I am still trying to get the 1st quarter pic in, so you won't be getting the picture for this last score. Screw it
8:15 - Our pass defense is obviously very different without Woodson. I just hope it was a good decision to sit him in the long run, because the way this game is going, not good!
8:20 - I want to try the BK Homestyle Melt sometime soon. Looks goo
8:22 - Looks like we got a typical Favre in Texas Stadium....ESPN News says Favre is hurt.......this blog is going to get a lot less interesting, for I am going to pay less attention. I am disgusted.
8:25 - Ray Buchanon is upset as well.
8:26 - ugh 1st and Goal
8:29 - 10-27.....My hatred for the Cowboys has just been renewed.
8:30 - TextTwist will not load, making this night even worse
8:31 - Aaron Rodgers is in. Favre is out. I hate Nathan Jones, he better hope Favre is fine next week!
8:35 - There is going to be a Gears of War film in 2009. Neat
8:36 - Text Twist is working.....later
8:43 - My six pack is gone. Debating whether I should go to the hotel bar for a few. Maybe after some TextTwist
8:51 - Interesting, I lost on the word fumble. I guess my mind was off football.
8:53 - Rodgers to Jennings - 17-27. eh
9:27 - TD PACKERS! 24-27. Rodgers seems to be playing well. The problem is the Cowboys will just open the air game back up. I am still very emotionless with Favre being injured.
9:34 - Playin some 1 vs 100, but might quickly resume full attention to GameCast
9:36 - Big pass to Crayton, as I figured, picking on our secondary again. Sounds like the Pack is playing a zone....why?
9:37 - Yep, big run now. This defense can't hold up to their end of the bargain. Now a big pass and they are in the red zone. Disgusting
9:43 - How are we allowing big rushes? I understand the passes with Woodson being out. 1st ang goal. Shame, would have been a good story line for Rodgers if the defense could have just held.
9:45 - End of 3rd quarter. Aye ya yai
9:48 - Thank you Al Harris, or sounds like, thank you T.O. for the drop into Harris' hands
9:49 - I wish Barry Melrose would give up on the mullet. We all know who you are now, you don't need the mullet to let us know you are the hockey guy.
10:00 - What shit, I found a link with the game on. All this, and I could have been watching
10:01 - just in time to watch the TD to pretty much seal this game by Crayton. damn it
10:03 - Wow, just saw the interference call...BAD CALL STRIPES!
10:10 - Collinsworth and Gumbel are terrible.
10:11 - That was a bad spot
10:12 - hell of a kick, clutch. But I am still reeling on that spot. Defense needs to step up big!
10:19 - Cowboys are making a finishing blow drive, also, this internet thing is choppy, and laggy, ut beats GameCast
10:21 - The defense jsut couldn't do it. It is a shame, Rodgers was showing a lot of promise, if he could have just gotten the ball one last time. How many times did the Cowboys punt? I can remember only one.
10:26 - They keep showing that bad interference call. Man, that could have been the difference in the game. Shame. I also was not a big fan of McCarthy not going for it on 4th and inches, though it wasn't a huge surprise, I still think the spot was bad.
10:32 - Well, game over. You know, injuries obviously played a huge part of this game. The defense just wasn't the same. I sure hope everyone comes back soon.
10:36 - I am just hoping Favre is fine. I am not at all shocked the Pack lost this game, and I am glad it was at least somewhat close. However, the main worry is if Favre is ok. Also, Woodson needs to come back as well if they are wanting to go anywhere in the playoffs.
Well, that is that.

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Some good lyrics

While traveling to the anti-metropolis of Highland, WI for Thanksgiving break, I was doing some pretty hardcore jamming with my iPod. The trip is one of the most boring trips ever. Just a short 1 hour trip down I-94 from Brookfield to the Beltline. A short boring trip down Hwy 12-18 (aka Beltine), then taking 151 South for a unthrilling trip to Dodgeville. From here things get interesting, I hop on County Hwy Q and fly through the hills and valleys in which I was raised.

I have to mention this while I have it on my mind. Do you people all remember when that chick from Madison kidnapped herself, Audrey Seiler. Well, that got some national coverage for a bit. And I remember sitting in Whitewater watching CNN, probably fresh off of calling in sick to Arrow with SARS (remember that shit). Anyways, 24 hour news stations are always searching for something to say. While this might not be exact, I believe it to be accurate as to the conversation.

Reporter 1 (with view from helicopter over the Madison Beltine) - We are looking at an open space of land in which authorities think Audrey may be. It is right off state highways 12 and 18. The locals here call it, "The Beltine"

CNN Anchor - The Beltine, is that at all like the Beltine in Washington DC?

Ok, first off. what was the relevance of that question. Second, Madison, WI....Washington DC.......think about it.

Anyways, while driving I thought of an idea to post some pretty sweet lyrics in my opinion. In no particular order here are a few of my choosing.

Bon Jovi - Bed of Roses
"As I dream about movies,
They won't make of me when I'm dead"

Not too sure why I think this is a good line. Probably because it is a feeling I think most of us have. We all think our life stories would make an excellent movie, but we all know that a) it really wouldn't be a good movie b) people wouldn't pay to see it. This is also a bit of a love ballad, and that always seems, in my opinion, to be a time to think about a movie of your life and its tangled love life.......oh, whoa is me, haha.




Satan - Up There (South Park: Bigger, Longer, and Uncut)
"Without evil there can be no good,
so it must be good to be evil sometimes"

Just think about it, it would seem to be a true statement. Ok, this is a cartoon, and is a big joke...but really, would it not give us a bit of an excuse to do some mischief from time to time.











Blink-182 - What's My Age Again
"No one should take themselves so seriously,
With many years ahead to fall in line,
... I'll never wanna act my age,
What's my age again?"

I like this line because it rings true with my refusal to grow up. Why shouldn't we have fun and live life like we want to. Who says I have to act a certain way just because I am a certain age, that is a bunch of BS.



Lucky Boys Confusion - Atari
"I just want to drink beer and play Atari"

Two of my favorite past times!







Offspring - Bad Habit
"You stupid dumbshit goddam motherfucker!"

Ok, so, I was a kid, Offspring rocked, and swearing was a new, cool thing for me. Why wouldn't this be a good line?






O.A.R. - I Feel Home
"There are few things pure in this world anymore,
and home is one of the few.
We'd have a drink outside,maybe run and hide
if we saw a couple men in blue."

"Feeling alright, heading out tonight,
maybe out to a dark driveway.
I say now some feel bored,and some are looking for more.
Well, we all just decide to stay."

Really, I could have put this whole song in there, but I won't. I love this song, and it reminds me so much about growing up in a small town. We were all friends just passing time with a few drinks in remote locations.


I know there were more lyrics I thought of, but damned if I can remember. Maybe I will do a similar post in the future.
Carry on..........carry on!

Thursday, August 30, 2007

Segways

After having a pleasant phone conversation with my good buddy and current whore on my mind, Bernard...I realized I have not let you in on my life and thoughts for far too long. In fact, I had to check what my last post was. My worst fears were realized when I saw that my last blog was how I was going to lose weight. As you can imagine, and as you have probably notice, I am still sitting pretty similar to where I was then.

Here is what happened though. I was doing well, and not really struggling, my portions were down, eating healthier, still drinking, and I was still losing weight. What happened you wonder? Honestly, life was going along pretty nice and I forgot. My weight worries melted off of me and I just didn't worry about it, or any other problems. Things are still rolling smooth for me, so that is nice.

Well, maybe not everything is running smooth. The Brewers have officially annoyed me. Not only have they given up first place, but they can't seem to string together any wins....in fact, once would be nice. Well, they are currently locked up in a tie with the Cubs for their final match up of the season. I am keeping faith, though starting to be a more pessimistic faith. But, if they falter for good, it is officially football season and I can do like most of Wisconsin already has and forget about baseball and focus on football.
The first Badger game is this Saturday, and while I don't have a ticket I will be doing some partying in Madison hanging around Camp Randall, then the Capital, then eventually State St. All in all, a nice little Saturday planned. Should be a rowdy good time with lots to drink.

Talk about drinking. I tried this Monster Energy drink that tastes like a Mocha, it was nice, and the energy is always nice when you are working. This week though was nice because I am in Florida, without having to drive a 24 ft trailer around. I took this picture today, I think it is funny. I head back home tomorrow though thankfully. Every time I go on a trip, Thursdays really get to be the day that I start to miss home and my small, unputaway apt.


When I do get to my apartment, I am going to throw my Brewer garb on, and head to meet Leah Shefizzypop and her bro and head to the game. Then obviously I already said what I am doing Saturday which leaves my Sunday and Monday (Labor Day) and that is refreshing because I am sick of plans, while it is nice to do things, it is also nice to do things on a whim.

And I just decided I would end this rambling blog.....on a whim