We all have stages, don't we?

For me, for this particular moment. I am seriously over-thinking ENTIRELY WAY. TOO. MUCH. And it probably only compounds the suck that I have a creative mind. That sounds really egotistical, doesn't it? But I have no idea how else to put it:

over-thinking + over-active imagination = a lot of suck.

But yea, there it is. And here I am. Almost 2 in the morning. Can't sleep. So I think. And I guess you probably want to know what I am thinking about. What has me perplexed at this late/early hour? Well, this is where I am a tease, and you just don't get to hear it.

But if you know me, and I mean really know me, you can probably make a pretty educated and accurate guess.

But yea, of all the things to plague a person's mind, I probably am stuck on the worst topic. But that's okay I suppose. If I ever make it to bed, I'm sure it'll pass by morning.

So this is weird and random...

So what is truly a random thought. Seriously, this just popped into my head, and I started to get a little mushy. And somewhat appropriate as we draw closer to NYE.

But, I just realized, well, not just, but it occurs to me how fortunate I am to know some pretty incredible people. Seriously. There are people in my life that I am so amazingly thankful for. People with such amazing hearts, and even more amazing capacity to love. And I don't know how I became so lucky to know these people, and count them among those to whom I call friend.

And yes, I am resisting quoting Spock here. Those of you how know the reference, there is a reason we're friends.

But yea, I have some amazing people in my life to whom I am lucky enough to call friend. And that's pretty much it.

The end.

Girls. Love. Harry Potter.

I had a girl tonight ribbed me about a scarf of mine. A scarf I love. A Ralph Lauren piece of comfort. A long, striped, beautiful piece of warmth. And it kind of looks like something from Harry Potter. Something that has been commented on a lot.

and this girl was no different.

As the evening went on, she ribbed, all in good fun. And before I left, in this evening of Karaoke, she sang me a song. And I think I was in love. Not really, but it's fun to say. But I think she might shit a brick if she knew I actually had not only a Harry Potter scarf, but tie as well. And yes, I plan on wearing both when the next movie comes out.

You wish you were as awesome as me.

The Holidays...

Well my Christmas is drawing to a close. Like every year, as it should, has been spent with family. And it's always good to see them. I only see them about once or twice a year, so it's always very special when I can see them. And everytime I realize how much I miss them, and how much I wish I could see them more often.

As far as this family trip, it's always the same. Mom gives me life lectures, big brother still seems to need to experience some life lessons, there's the occaisional drama that's usually a result of me being away. But there's always plenty of love. And this particular holiday I got to spend a lot of time with Mom, which was surprisingly wonderful. There are some things I wish for my family to make it a little more whole... but you don't get to hear about that.

But I fly back home to KC tomorrow. And yes, Kansas City is home. It's funny when I first realized that. It was actually a Christmas a few years back. I was in line at a Best Buy, getting gifts for the family, and this particular year it was a hella long line. And situations like that, I just have this habit of talking to strangers. This one woman I was talking to, we were talking about a lot of random life things, and it came up that I was, "...flying home to Maryland."

And she just stated, "That's funny. It's funny that you've lived in Kansas City for how many years? And you still call Maryland home?"

And she was right I think. I mean, I will always love Maryland, I grew up here, this is where I am from, and in some sense, it will always be home. But Kansas City is my home. So yea, I am going home tomorrow. And it should be interesting I guess...

Not entirely sure how perse. I know in the new year I need to set goals for my life, there are things I need to get in order, things I need to be more responsible for. Things that I want, but more importantly, need to change. And I'm kind of scared by that to be honest. But we'll see how it goes.

But first up when I get back? Getting ready for the New Year's Party. Happens every year. But I always get panicked whenever I throw I party, I mean, dear reader, do you get any anxiety in the party planning? You know, "I hope people come? What if nobody comes? Did I forget anything?" Blablabla. I guess it doesn't help my nerves that it's snowed pretty hard in KC while I have been away. But we'll keep the party on, and hope for the best.

Well anyway. I have no idea where I wanted to go with this post. But I guess I'll leave it at I am really thankful for having the chance to see and spend some wonderful time with my family. Doesn't happen often enough. And I am looking forward to getting my game face on for 2010.

Here's to a new year, and a new day.

Happy Holidays boys and girls! Till next time.

Even after all this time...

...still LOVE this. Working in advertising, I am always striving to create an experience like this. I don't even like Sony TV's, but I want one after this.

'Repo Men' Red-Band Trailer...

I'm sure this movie will have no thought provoking ending, that will have me pondering the weight of my life for months to come. But this movie looks to be a heck of a lot of fun.

Enjoy:



And before you ask, this is not a remake, reimagining, re-whateveryouplease of the 80's movie of the same name.

The end.

I love you Midwest Airlines...

I mean, your cookies alone is enough to love you to no end. But can I tell you what one pilot did? Well, you actually have no say in the matter, because I am going to write about it. I guess you can go to another website, but this post will still be here, BRAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

ahem, but I digress...

Yea, Midwest. Okay, so like every year, I am getting ready to fly to Maryland to see family for the holidays. Done this enough that you know when you need to be where, blablabla. Getting on the plane in KC, they tell you it's going to be a few moments for them to de-ice the plane. No biggie, that time of year.

And we're off.

Eating my sweet cookie, talking to a modern day June Cleaver in the seat next to me. And when we land, June asks me, "what time is your next flight?" I check my ticket, "4:10" I reply. And she pauses, in only a way June Cleaver can, and says, "It's 4:15"

And the only word going through my head at that moment is...

balls.

I push my way out of the plane, and run to my connecting gate (which was a feat in it of itself, as I am GROSSLY out of shape... a state I will never truly ever tell you about) Heaving and panting as I approach my gate, the attendant asks, "Are you Mr. Lee?"

"What the what?" I say to myself.

Turns out the plane was still at the gate. 20 minutes after it was supposed to leave. I was told the Pilot was not going to leave anyone behind, not on Christmas. And supposedly the was some standing up for me happening before my arrival.

Though my tardiness was no fault of my own, I have to say I was SO appreciative of the Pilot, and his kind heart to wait for one late Korean.

Merry Christmas you masked Midwest Pilot you! Definitely made my Christmas a little more special.

I have a big dome...

Yea so, my job, every year there's always free branded goodness the company gives the employees. Be it jackets, hankees, bags, and caps. But this story is about the hat. It's always a ballcap. And if you don't know me, well, what you should know is I have a big ass dome. And ballcaps really don't fit. Kinda sits on the crown of my head, and I end up rocking this Elmer Fudd look.

And I always lament, it would be nice to get a hat with a little elastic love.

Well, this year I got my wish.

Pretty kick ass snow cap, with dear sweet elastic. Finally a hat I can wear.

Sadly I was wrong.

About to head out for errands. Threw it on, and the thing was hella tight.

I love my company, but they love small heads. Sigh.

Curse me and my big dome. :)

Well shit.

That's it. You don't get to hear more internet. Though of all the times to be without a cigarette, right now is probably the worst possible.

Blurg.

I think...

...I might bake a pie tonight.

So that just happened...

Apparently a ladybug just flew out of my chest, true story.

Has me thinking...

Video Game - E3 2009 - Attack of the Show

...cause I hates me some AT&T too.

And for your viewing pleasure...

A poster I did for a work thing:

I am obscessed

With ASIAN FUNG-FU GENERATION. I don't know what the fuck they're saying, but I love it...

Funny how it happens...

...but I experienced a real-life "The Office" Angela today.

Ugh.

Nice.

Big Brother got married...

It was an amazing, heart warming weekend with family and friends celebrating this fantastic new union. Love you Big Brother and Big Sister!

Seriously...

...how can you not love this woman... or lust. Whatever does it for you.

Probably no big surprise...

...but paranoia is unhealthy for the soul.

On a side note about the wedding weekend...

You know, I know I got some extra pounds on me. And I'm okay with that. Only when I come to visit the family, without fail there is someone who comments on my weight.

Usually my mother. But given the wedding weekend, this trip it's her sister, my Aunt, to whom I call California Emoh. She will not let up. And it's all I can do to bite my tongue...

I would elaborate, but that would require face to face conversation, and a cocktail.

But moving on...

FREAKIN' OUT!!!

So my big brother is getting married tomorrow. He's named me the Best Man. Kinda feel like I have been dropping the ball in those duties. And the last bit, the Best Man speech. On draft 10, does not feel right.

I think I am going to vomit.

Wait... I did that yesterday (true story).

Anyway, that's it internet. I'm sure I will share more soon.

B

Random thought of the day...

"Stressed, Hot, Spicy Asian" just came up as variables for one chef in Top Chef... I couldn't help but giggle. :)

The Movie Project Update...

I don’t know how many of you out there have been visiting FUZZYBUG.NET for this little passion project of mine. But since committing to the Movie Experiment, I have quickly realized a movie a day is a little more difficult than I planned. But since starting, I think I am about 11 movies in, and that’s not including the movies I have already seen with that little magic card. But yea, 11 movies in, 4 reviews to write from that 11, and there’s still more movies to come.

In the coming week or two, goals to see: Where the Wild Things Are, Law Abiding Citizen, 9, It Might Get Loud, Cold Souls, I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell, and yea, I’ll say it, Fame.

JPOP for the soul, vol. 2...

So if you know me, you know I am a big geek. In the case of this blog post, anime. And for some reason I have been fixated lately on which band's songs have been licensed for some of my favorite anime. I mean, like the SEATBELTS "Tank!" for Cowboy Bebop? Fucking awesome! So you know, who else?

Funny thing, turns out alot of the anime and songs in question are by Asian Kung-Fu Generation! Who knew!

Anyway, here are some of the videos, enjoy!





Oh and I've been a big fan of SEATBELTS for years, here's a live performance of Tank!, watch, enjoy, and become a fan too!

More JPOP for the soul...

...and seriously, how great is the band name, "Asian Kung-Fu Generation"?

The power of focus, or lack thereof...

So it's of interest to me how easy you can lose focus.

Every year my company sends out a holiday card. Be it on the internet, or some sort of physical designed goodness.

Anyway, by some random happenstance an idea came to me. I shared it with my Group Creative Director, he loved it. Asked to whom I should pitch this to, or send a write up to. He dropped some names, and off a write up went.

And regardless of my action/item list for the day, all I could think of is, "What did they think???"

So it's probably going to be a busy day of catch up tomorrow. :)

Scary Realizations...

...I think I am addicted to the internet.

Hmmm. I should sign off now.

The end.

Random thought of the day...

You ever feel like you can never seem to say the right thing?

Yea, that's today... well, actually, the past few.

Wish there was a do-over to life. But sadly David Mamet had it right when he wrote, "...only second chance in life is the chance to make the same mistake twice..."

So true.

My Hero.

Steve's Late Night Set - 11/13/2008


Feeling inadequate? You should.

Who doesn't love a good musical number...

Love it!

Yea, I don't know what they're singing, but it's AWESOME!

Enjoy!

The Aftermath...

Just got back from Big Brother's Bachelor Party. It was in Vegas. And safe to say I am sore and broke.

It was a great time. Hope Big Brother had a good time.

Now I am going to go sleep for the rest of the weekend.

Smoking.

So it's been decided. I've decided to quit smoking. Sure I've tried before and failed. But this time I hope will be different.

Why?

Well, someone in my life asked me to quit. And that was enough. And I am hopeful it'll stick. Well, made a promise to quit. Not in a habit of breaking my promises. So I guess I have no other choice but to hold strong, and make it stick right :)

Anyway. We'll see where this goes.

How's the Movie Experiment going?

Well... hasn't been 1 a day... but I've been trying. Last week:

- Julie and Julia
- Funny People
- (500) Days of Summer
- District 9

This week? Well, what I am shooting for:

Monday: Ugly People

Tuesday: Ponyo

Wednesday: Dare I say it... The Time Traveler's Wife. I know, I know. Judge me. I would judge me to! I mean, it looks SO BAD! And I kinda feel like I saw the movie in the trailer. This is how I see the movie going: Guy comes. Guy goes. Guy comes. Guy goes. Guy and girl fall meet and fall in love. Guy goes. Guy comes. Girl thinks the coming and going gets too hard. Guy goes. Guy comes. Guy goes. Guy comes. They make up...

...and before he goes it probably will end in some cheeseball scene like they're running towards one another in a field. They hug. He'll say something like, "I have to go", she'll be all like, "I know."

He melts away all dramatic. May throw in a lens flare for good measure, annnnnnd fade to black.

That's the movie I see in the trailers. Maybe I'm wrong. I hope so. And they supposedly changed the ending from the book (never I good sign I think). But, we'll see, if I am really bored Wednesday, who knows. Looks to be a busy work week... so maybe I'll have a good excuse not too, haha.

Thursday: No movie, Alacartoona at Jardine's. In KC? You should go! $5 cover I think.

Friday: Inglorious Basterds, then that night: MONGOL BEACH PARTY (Google it KC peoples)

Saturday/Sunday: Not sure... movies opening that weekend seem a little light on shit I would want to see. I mean, do I really want to go see BandSlam or Shorts? Even IF it's a free pass? (the answer you're looking for is probably "no")

That's the week boys and girls. Let me know if you want to join.

Your eyes do not decieve you...

...these are PIE lollipops. Not created by my hand, but they are true nonetheless... and I am strangely finding myself craving one, and disgusted by them at the same time.

Never really wanted to...

...you know drop a shit ton of stickers on my laptop. I mean, you drop a couple thousand on a machine, do you really want to drop a ton of stickers on there? Well, I didn't, until I saw this:

So...

Alacartoona got bumped this week. They'll be playing next week at Jardine's... sigh.

Movie Experiment, part deux...

Did I mention I will be writing about these movies on: fuzzybug.net

enjoy!

Movie Experiment...

Okay so I have this card. This card gives me free movies for a year, me and a guest. Well... it's not free, paid for the stupid thing (but if anyone at AMC wants to give me a free one, I'm not going to say no). Anyway, like a free (actual free) gym membership I got sometime back, not using it as much as I should. So going to try a little experiment. Going to see a movie a day, unless there are plans, gonna see a movie a day until there are no more movies to see. So what's up for this week?

Monday: Julie and Julia

Tuesday: Funny People

Wednesday: The Ugly Truth

Thursday: Have plans, Alacartoona playing at Jardine's. You should go. You know, if you're in KC.

Friday: District 9

Saturday: Ponyo

So there it is. Want to join me? Give me a shout. But this shit is happening.

WIN!!!

Hope for more...

...from Epitaph One. And if you know what I am talking about, well, I think I love you.

It might be wrong...

http://www.cafepress.com/yellowrant.282064914

...but you know you just giggled.

You probably have seen this...

...but I love this. It may make me shallow to be moved by a message of hope driven by celebrities, but the message is the same. And this message taking the shape of a song, a song driven by our President's words, regardless of who sings it, the fact his words are so poetic... this video gives me hope, and drive. However low I may feel, it's important not to lose hope.

Well. I wanted to share this with you, because everytime I see it, hear it... I feel stronger, more peaceful. And I hope you will too.

Are you from Kansas City?

This is just one more reason why I despise Power & Light:

http://thismayconcernyou.com/2009/06/07/dj-jazzy-jeff-the-power-light-district/

Find the joy in your life...

Have you found the joy in your life?

I hope so.

I'm still looking for the joy in mine. I'm not sure what that is, or where I will find it. I think I knew at one point, that special something. You know, where you know where you belong, where your day gives you meaning. Where each day would present you with challenges that would grow you, teach you. Not only yourself, but extend to those most important to you.

I think I knew what that was. But somewhere along the way I've forgotten. And I want it back, to find it again, to discover it again. I don't want to simply go through the paces of life without thought, immersed in routine, because that's what growing up tells you to do.

I remember there was a movie in which it talked about if you're unhappy with your life, to have the strength to change it. I think I've realized that I am unhappy, as sad as that may sound... I just don't know if I am strong enough to change it.

Not even sure what I would change it to.

But there it is. Me, lost in a sea of doubt, and uncertainty, looking for that happiness. Cause I can't remember the last time that I was, you know, happy. But I'll keep looking. And if you're in the same boat as I am, I hope you will to.

So...

...this evening all I will say is that after a great day I chose to browse the internet only to find a great many things that make my butt itch, and my feet sweat.

And yes, I have been drinking this evening, hey, there was a birthday tonight. And if you know me, you know, if I love you, I love your birthing day.

Anyway. Sad to end a great day and night with the feeling of butt itching and sweating feet.

The end.

Will you?

I wonder if everyone in America will send me $1?

You give me a dollar, wouldn't you?

HULU

So I met people this weekend, people in my age demographic, who didn't know what HULU was. That is SO weird to me. I mean, really weird. Is that wrong?

It was just weird to hear a group of computer literate, young adults, who didn't seem like they stepped off a Amish farm say, "Wow, what is this HULU you're browsing?"

Bonkers.

Huh...

I had no idea the shitbox director Rob Cohen directed Dragonheart. Not a great movie, but WAY better than pretty much anything Cohen has done since. Mummy 3 anyone?

Stuff...

...going through some stuff. But I bought some shoes. Ladies you are right, that shit DOES make you feel better ;)

WHAT THE WHAT!!!

Seriously, I am unabashed about my geek passions, like say comics. Love the comic book. Even as it's become more "chic" to be geek of late, I have to say this guy... taking the fandom to a seriously scary place.

ENJOY!


Homemade Real Wolverine Like Claws X-Men - Awesome video clips here

Food for thought...

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world.

Because it’s the only thing that ever has.

To Do:

- build client site
- noodle on another client
- design big brother's wedding jams
- officiate a wedding (not my brother's, but that will happen too, just not right now)
- charity art donation
- freelance follow-up
- sit on a charity board during the active season
- personal project 1
- personal project 2
- personal project 3
- personal project 4 (yes, there are actual "personal" projects, you just don't get to hear about them right now)

Yea... a lot happening... I need to learn to say no, and get better at time management.

Strange...

Had a great day: movies, fast food, Best Buy and friends.

But what's strange, why do I feel sad, like I just cried kinda sad...

Weird, I know.

Wonderous.

HBO has been showing Schindler's List more and more lately. And I have to say, movies like this you kind of have to be in the mood to see, or at least mentally prepared. But... this one, no matter how many times I see it, it's as powerful, and moving as the first.

The first time I saw this movie was in high school, in my Middle East Studies class. The teacher, Mr. Laslow, was very careful to elude to religion, you know, Church and State, big nono. But religion was there, objective and unbiased. And in-between the History of God (read it), and other works, there was Oskar Schindler, and Speilberg's movie to introduce me to this man.

What made this even more memorable, and lasting, was a trip the class took to the Holocaust Museum. If you thought the film was powerful and moving, the journey through that place would rock you to your core. I remember going through that place, and the horrors of history, and I remember how that experienced ended in this mini-pavilion of sorts that showed video testimonials from survivors of the Holocaust.

Through it all, you couldn't help but be reminded of how powerful the human spirit can be.

Heh, it's interesting how something as simple as a film can remind you of experiences that have had an impact on you on some level.

Amazing.

Okay, that's it. Back to work.

Statements and Observations...

It's curious to me, whenever I think someone is proving me wrong about the person I think they're showing me to be... they always end up proving me right.

No... that's not curious. Just upsetting.

That, and petty people upset me.

Times like this I wish karma would kick in, you know, if karma is a actual thing.

THAT, and I refuse to believe I made others sick in the office. :D

The end.

Progress...

Customizing a DIY toy for a charity art show. Yes, that is a squid on his head, it's missing, wait for it, a bowler's hat, and headphones.

More photos to come...

Something I did for a friend...

Love it, part 2

Love it...

One of my favorite lines from a movie...

"You look good wearing my future."

The end.

Status...

Watching way too many movies.

Drawing way too many storyboards.

Smoking way too many cigerettes.

Drinking WAY too much Mountain Dew.

Whew.

MISC...

"Isn't it nice when honest virtues win?" Yes it is Subaru, yes it is.

McDonald's, your Fillet O'Fish commercial just blew my mind.

The end.

Giving back, why you do it.

It's funny.

I had this conversation last night about how no one does anything altruistically, there's always a selfish motivation behind it. Whether it be a tangible thing to reach, a means to an end, or to feel better about yourself. Basically stating that it's never about helping, it's always about you.

And I took issue with that to some degree. Though my faith in people has become jaded of late, I have to believe at some level people are inherently good. See I volunteer a lot. Never had a selfish reason for it. But I was asked why I do it. Why I give back.

It was hard for me to answer, those things I give my time for I think are important. To give a smile, to give aid. But it was hard to answer. But I sit here now, watching this telefilm on HBO, Taking Chance, about an officer escorting a fallen solder home. And watching that service, not only by the officer, but by those who he encounters, talking about service, doing what they can because it's important for them to give back. To do something, if only to help for a moment.

And that says it in a nutshell. Giving back, don't do it for me, doesn't give me some sense of purpose. I don't care how others few me because of it. And at times it's even a huge frustration, and fills my life with task after task, never really leaving a moment for yourself or a life. But... I do feel, if you can, if you're able, giving back to those around you, helping others to make our world better... as corny as that sounds, it's important to do it.

I just hope a difference is made. I hope it makes someone's life better. Even if it's something as simple as giving a friend a smile, I hope someone's life is better for it.

Humbled... angry... just not sure...

It's strange... lately... feeling a little overtly sensitive... and at the same time really angry. I'm not sure what accounts for this. But there it is.

I'm thankful for having some amazing people around me. People to whom I find with incredible hearts, good souls, and feel very lucky to count them as friends. And having that goodness around me is most definitely a shining light in my life. But as much as I am so fortunate to have that goodness in my life... sometimes the anger is so great. I find it hard to keep that in check.

Of late, more and more, I find myself being unabashingly (is that even a word?) honest. And even unapologetic in that honesty. Speaking of things more than I probably should. And I find myself being very sensitive to what society might consider douchebags and, well, fake people.

And when I say sensitive, I don't mean that in a fashion to where I am supportive, or feel somesort of affection for them in whatever plight they may have in life. But more, their bad boogie... has an effect on me, like an infection. I take it in. And, I think it makes me so incredibly angry.

And it's not their fault, I let it affect me. And I wish I wouldn't.

But this vunerabilty, and anger... I want it to go away. But to do that, I need to find where it's coming from. And what is going on in my life that is making things happen this way. But I am not sure where it is. Friends tell me to let it go, move one, but I can't seem to do so.

In this state though, I find myself wondering if others see me in the way I've been seeing a great many people of late. I guess that thought is unavoidable, but what can you do?

But I guess I'll leave this at if you're a selfish person, a greedy person, a generally bad person in life. And we may know one another. Don't come my way, chances are I will call shenanigans. And that just wouldn't be pleasant experience for either of us.

Anyway, that's it. I hope you are having a wonderful day internet. I hope life is finding you well. And I am sure I will see you again soon.

A Jam for Charity...

This was an illustration I did for charity. Enjoy!

This just happened...

I just had a homeless man, by his claim, served in the Vietnam War... yea, I just had this man apologize to me for serving. It didn't help that I told him I wasn't Vietnamese, nor did it help that I wasn't alive during the war.

But yea, that just happened.

Mean Muggin'

Yes, this is my "Mean Muggin'" face.

The end.

Hello internet, can you help a guy out?

AND PUNCH CANCER IN THE FACE!

So here's the thing. Some of you may know I shaved my head for the American Cancer Society last year. A fundraiser to help the Hope Lodge of KC, a place that offers free housing for cancer patients and their caretakers during their treatment.

Since I have joined the board for the event. And we're approaching one of the fundraising initiatives, the Wine Tasting and Auction.

And I am asking all of you who are able and willing to help. How? With auction items. Big, small, any size. Ask your friends, bosses, anyone you may know with something awesome to donate. Please let me know if you can help!

Thanks!

B

Loyalty and Compulsions...

Penny Arcade, genius, I'll say it. And their strip about Dollhouse, spot on. I want to love to love Dollhouse, but sadly, haven't. Of the three episodes that aired, been entertained by only one. The others? Well, they make me cringe through the watching. I want to say it's the premise, and not the writing... but it hurts me.

But why I find PA even more profound on this strip than most. This strip can be an allegory for so much in my life right now. The events of the evening would be a great example. I would elaborate, but I'm not. But yea, this is probably not the forum to talk about it anyway.

Either way, it doesn't change the fact that the PA team is brilliant in their ability to satire a situation, however complex, in 3 panels. Penny Arcade, I heart you.

PS
And since I am using this image without permission, please visit them at Penny-Arcade.com.

Mornings.

So I am typically late to work in the morning. Actual times vary day to day. Once in a blue moon, I get up super early and it's all good.

Well. Today was a late day. But it was also a early wakey day. So why was I late to work?

I felt compelled to season a steak and set it in a brine bath.

Weird right? And my hands smell like sesame oil, HOT!

1-800, whoa!

So I am sitting here, desperately trying to catch up on my receipts for 2008, so I can print out my expense report, so I can do my taxes, and you want to know what I am noticing?

I sent a lot of fucking flowers in 2008. And flowers are not cheap!

That, and I went to Bella Napoli.

A lot.

If you don't know what Bella is? Well, let's just say if you're not in KC, you're missing out.

CUUUUTE.

Asian babies with computers, you can't help but smile.

Kind of all over the place...

So it's funny, I can't remember if I mentioned it here before or not, but turns out I maintain approximately 9-10 portals online... That's a little much. Whether it be MySpace, Facebook, my own sites... there's quite a few bouncing around.

I think I need to consolidate.

Hmmm. I'll keep you updated.

And in more adventures in cooking...

This is a little adventure in breakfast cooking. This little guys is stuffed with tomatoes, shitake mushrooms, proscuitto (sp?), white onion, cheese, spinach, siracha (sp?), and some other goodies.

You know you want one.

And if not, well, I guess that's cool too.

It it seemed so small, but strangely it was so touching...

So I play Powerball. A buck or two a week for a little hope and a little fun. Now before you trash talk, I know it's a idiot tax, but really you can't win if you don't play. And like I said, a buck or two a week for a little daydreaming and fun, why not?

Anyway, I was out with a few friends not too long ago, and I mentioned, "Send some good vibes this way, Powerball is tonight!!! If I win, everybody is getting out of debt!"

See if I ever won, I would get out of debt, get my family out of debt. I would make sure me and my family were taken care of. Of course, buy something stupid. And the rest? Well, it's the this last part that this blog is all about. The last part, I would get all my friends out of debt.

And that last confession, see, the person I was talking to, a person I feel very lucky to have as a friend, he simply replied, "You know, out of all my friends, I think you're the only one who would actually do that."

And that really meant a lot. That simple statement. I don't know why, but it really was very touching.

So Powerball is tomorrow night boys and girls, send some good vibes this way, I got people with debt that needs payin'!

Look out 50, SEXXMAN is gunning for you!

Well there's this kid on YouTube named, Sexxman, and he's got a beef with 50 Cent. All I have to say is, AMAZING!

Shepard Fairy Can't Seem to Get a Break...

You know the image, maybe you heard that Fairy was accused of copyright infringement by the Associated Press. Reportedly he was forced to admit that the famous image was based on a AP photo of Obama.

If he's convicted of that, he could face 3 years in prison.

Now, he was arrested in Boston when he was on his way to the Institute of Contemporary Art to kickoff a solo exhibition. Supposedly the charges were based on damaging property with graffiti in several locations, and warrants were issued on Jan.24th.

Nothing was stated as to what the instances of vandalism were, but it's safe to say the man can't seem to get a break.

And in regards to the charges by the Associated Press, get over it. He didn't profit from the run, all the money went to Obama's campaign. The image inspired a nation. AND if he did use the photo, it was used as reference, is it really considered copyright infringement when you don't actually use the physical photo?

ARGHHHHH!

So whatever your passion is, at one point or another I'm sure you get blocked. You know, like Writer's Block, just whatever is being blocked is your current passion in life. So here I am, struggling, being blocked. And sometimes, just sometimes, I feel like a hack when I get like this.

As far as what I feel like a hack about... well, you don't get to hear that.

How can this not make you smile?

#1

The only thing you need to know: this is what a #1 standing team in a bowling league looks like.

You know you want to be on it.

Holy cow!

Best. Viral. Video. EVER!



That sound you heard was your mind EXPLODING!

Holy Poop.

Been having a wicked pain in my shoulder.

Hoping a slept wrong, but OW.

So can I tell you about Fridays, and a little daydream?

So Fridays at work... well, let me back up. I work at an advertising agency in Kansas City, MO. And we're spit into 2 offices in the Downtown area. The main office being in a old airport, and the other is renovated building. I'm based in the later.

Anyway, Fridays at the airport, a guy cooks breakfast. Every Friday morning he does this. He stopped for awhile, but started back up again.

But I'm at the other office, and unable to partake. So last Friday I thought, "why not cook breakfast for everyone at 2020?"

So I did.

Took a few requests, like White Egg Prosciutto Spinach Omelettes (and yes, I made those).

But other then that, it was eggs, bacon and sausage.

And I have to say, it went well.

I don't know if people were bullshitting me, but everyone beamed on the food. And I started thinking about a little dream I had way back when.

Those of you who don't know me, let it be said that I love to cook. I dare not say if I am good, because I really don't have a frame of reference, but I like what I make. And having people tell me they enjoyed my food... well, it made me think once again of a little dream of opening a bistro somewhere.

That dream, that desire comes and goes. Never stays long enough for me to think "what if..." Those of you might say I'm scared. And you'd be right. I've founded and tried running a business before, and it ended in utter failure. And aside from the fear, there is always the money. Don't have it. But if anyone out there has a couple hundred thousand to give away and know a good business manager... well, give me a shout, got an idea for you.

Well, regardless of how intangible the "dream" maybe. I did find myself really enjoying cooking food from the heart for people. It meant a lot for them to enjoy my food. And I find myself wishing I could come home to have people to cook for.

AOTS Cracks My Jam Up...

This is definitely a "you had to be there" moment. And by "be there", I mean in front of your TV when this originally aired. So you know the lead in, and finish. It also helps if you're a fan of the show, or at least know of it.

I know there's a lot of conditions here, but nonetheless, this cracks my jam up:

The Start of Tomorrow.

I'm a Maryland boy born and raised, and this morning as I watch the inauguration in Kansas City, watching the huge sea of people taking part in what is a very historic moment. I find myself wishing I was in my hometown, wishing I could be there, to be part of that moment.

But regardless of ,what may be regarded as, my own melancholy emotions, today is such an amazing day. Personally I am so incredibly excited for what tomorrow may bring. And today is the start of it all. It's so strange, I don't think I have ever been so overwhelmed with hope during a political campaign then I have been with this last election. And as I watch, literally, a sea of people waiting for Obama to be sworn in, I'm not alone.

So congratulations Mr. President, congratulations America, and here's to a better tomorrow.

You know what bugs me...

So I am watching The Golden Compass on HBO, and you know what bugs me? Not the supposed religious allegory, but how open ended the movie was at the end. It bugs me to no end when movies are started not to tell a good story, but are crafted with a franchise in mind.

I can appreciate wanting to build that money train, and having faith in your product to tease the next installment. But when you leave it open ended in the first chapter it's just so unfufilling as a movie. And in the case of the Golden Compass, it did such shit at the box office, clearly no sequel is coming... it just bugs me.

Oh well, I guess I have to go get the books. But Plummer's books will have to wait their turn as I am loving The Walking Dead. Yes it's a comic. But the trades that I've been picking have been by far the most sophisticated, well written books I've read in a while. And the art is so cinematic... loving it. Causing me to be spending too much cash on these installments, and keeping me up way too late. Been a little tired at work as a result.

Anyway, that's it, had to vent. Hope you're well Internet, talk to you later.

OMG

So I'm watching the Golden Globes, and the Red Carpet interviews... holy cow, I've never seen a bigger live train wreck.

Okay, back to the show.

New Store.. sort of.

So I have this online store, and sort of gave it a little refresh. Take a look, and if you felt like, buy something.

The Yellowrant Store

Still more I want to do with it, so think of it as a phase 1 ;-)

New Year's Resolution...

That's right, just one. And I can't give you the abridged version of how this came to be, cause it can't be done, so you get the whole steak fajita burrito (Chipotle has nothing to do with the story, btw).

So where do we begin our story? This past holiday. And I hope my brother will forgive me when I write he lost a close friend of his recently, and the Memorial for friends was held when I was visiting family over Christmas. And what I didn't know, my brother's friend who passed, he met him and 3 others during a play he did, and had become such great friends since. Something I was so happy to discover. And when I heard my brother, and the remaining friends of that crew speak about their friend and the relationship they all shared... well you really got a sense that they always make time for one another, are always there for one another, and they would never let each other down.

Afterwards I thought that I hope I am that kind of person, I want to be, but honestly I didn't know if I could honestly answer yes. Of course I try to be there for people in my life, but sometimes you get to be a little selfish. Lose on moments together because you find yourself thinking it's not worth the effort. So rather than spend time with a friend, you opt to stay home and watch TV or something of the like.

So that's the heart of my resolution. When the opportunity presents itself, spend time with my friends, enjoy those moments and memories together with people closest to my heart. Of course it won't always be possible, things happen, conflicting schedules and such, but never will I decline an invitation to be part of my friend's lives because I'm, for lack of a better term, feeling lazy.

So there it is, when I can, spend every moment with the people important to me. That is my New Year's Resolution, as a friend of mine would say, REVOLUTION.

Happy New Year!

That was it.

yo...

And all I can think is that someone is breeding Sumo wrestlers at a young age...

Just a random thing...

...I'm still up, and I am not sure why.

Go get this...

My older brother took me to play slots for like the first time in forever last night, and I won $543!

Merry Christmas bitches! First round is on me!

6am, I hate you.

Okay, so Thanksgiving, I fly to see the fam. But my flight was at 6am. That said, you think I would be responsible and go to bed at a reasonable hour the night before. Wake up all nice and early, make the flight no problem. Right?

Wrong.

After I wrap my pre-trip rituals (yes, there are rituals), I decide to play video games into the wee hours of the morning.

Doesn't take a genius to know that was a bad idea.

Safe to say, woke up late, sleepy, barely made my flight.

Enter the Christmas.

Another 6am flight. Set for the 24th. Took any workday I would have this week off. Told myself, not going to make the same mistake twice. Going to use all of Tuesday for the pre-trip rituals, go to bed at an absurdly early hour, and make my flight, no problem.

Yea, so here's where we went wrong with that one.

Monday, the 22nd. Volunteer at the children's hospital. I end my shift with a couple a voicemails,

"Hey Ben, blablabla, let me know when you're coming back, blablabla, you said you're leaving tomorrow right?"

Wha?

"Hey little brother, blablabla, see you tomorrow!"

What the what?!!!

So at 8 or 9 at night, I call the airline to confirm my flight. Yea, it was this morning.

And in a frantic race, my OCD kicks in to try and accomplish my pre-flight rituals.

Safe to say, barely made my flight yet again.

But I'm with fam. Ready for the Fat Man in Red day of fun... but all I have to say is, I'm done with 6am flights. THAT and the fam needs to visit me one of these holidays.

Sheesh.

Anyway kids, I hope you all have a very Happy Christmas!

HOLY POOP!

Long story short.

I thought I was leaving for Maryland the 24th. Yea I was corrected tonight that it's tomorrow!

SO MUCH TO DO!

ugh.

So I am torn...

I am torn from either being responsible or completely and utterly selfish.

See through the month I volunteer at Children's Mercy Hospital. Though, past couple of shifts could not make it because of work and illness (even if you have a slight cough, they prefer you to stay home).

But tonight, last shift before the new year... I find myself wanting to be selfish. In part fueled that my volunteer partner cannot make it, and it part because it's butt ass cold outside.

All trivial reasons to be sure. But isn't that really the core of being selfish?

But who am I kidding. I know I am going to the hospital. I don't know why I bother bitching. Just part of me REALLY doesn't want to I guess.

Oh well. Time to be an adult and honor the commitments you make.

Cheers.

I hate the snow.

That's it.

I hate the snow.

More driving in it than anything else.

But yea, hate the snow.

This makes me smile...

If you're wondering why? I work in advertising.

Huh...

So I just heard that John Tish, the former Entertainment Tonight anchor, piano playing cheeseball is a part owner of the New York Giants!

I don't know why, but that's just really weird to me.

Huh.

So I guess Popeye's is trying to break into Korea. And they made a little commercial. It's the 4th video in on this segment... but seriously, I just don't know.



I can't help but wonder if this was concepted by Koreans or Americans... bizarre.