I turned 30 years old on Monday. I'm working on a list of 30 goals to accomplish this year before I turn 31. I don't know how many I will actually achieve, but I will try hard. Most, if not all, are things I haven't done before. I have 20 here and I will think of 10 more or maybe I'll do 10 more by the time next June 11 rolls around.
If you have any suggestions, please comment.
1. Run the Warrior Dash
2. Visit New York City
3. Read 3 classic books
4. Score 200 or better in a game of bowling
5. Shoot under 100 for an 18-hole round of golf
6. Run a marathon
7. Watch an NCAA Tournament basketball game live
8. Attend an NFL game
9. Complete 3 different 500+ piece puzzles
10. Try a new recipe
11. Visit Lambeau Field
12. Get a haircut at a professional barbershop
13. Watch Godfather and Godfather Part II
14. Read the entire Bible
15. Audition for a TV show
16. Bury a time capsule
17. Go skydiving
18. Ride Top Thrill Dragster at Cedar Point theme park
19. Order a new food item at 3 restaurants where I always order the same old thing
20. Complete 21-day no complaint challenge
21-30.....
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Playground Pics: Part Dos
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| My niece at the playground. Very serious face! |
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| A nephew riding the frog with 1 hand!! |
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| Oldest nephew swinging waaaay up in the air! |
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| My gf and niece on the slide. Not sure who's having more fun lol. |
Monday, June 11, 2012
Monday Mumbles
Happpppy Monday everyone!!!
1. First, Happy Birthday to me! Yep, I’m 30 today. It’s a bit sad but I’m trying to accept it and keep enjoying my day.
2. It’s been a good Monday and b-day so far. I got to work at a good time and the paper is done for the day.
3. I can’t believe I’m 30. It sounds so old. I was ok being in my middle, then late 20s. But 30...yikes!
4. Happy belated birthday to my niece. She turned 2 yesterday and from what I heard, she had a fun day of playing outside. She got some cool presents, too.
5. My girlfriend gave me part of my b-day gift last week. She bought me the DVD of the movie “Safe House” - great movie. Then last night at midnight, I got the other part. It’s an ATARI!!! Yep, an old school looking Atari that you just plug into your tv and it has around 60 games. I played it at lunch - loved it. My gf is awesome. She knew I wanted it and she got it. Love you babe!!
6. My mom and her 2 sisters (my aunts) came up for the weekend. Our 3rd straight weekend with visitors and we got more this weekend. Yay! It was fun seeing them and hanging out, though a bit crazy as expected. They bought me lunch Saturday, a b-day dinner Saturday and lunch yesterday. We all went to the local casino for an hour Saturday just to goof around - I lost $20, oh well.
7. My dad called me this morning at 8 a.m. When I wasn’t living with him, he’d always call on my bday. He does with us kids and his grandkids. Thanks for the call and happy birthday wishes dad!
8. My mom and aunts brought my gf and I furniture — a bed (mom moved and didn’t need it) and a love seat (gma bought it at an estate sale). Thank you all very much! My gf and I also bought a small table and chairs (really benches) for $65 at a 2nd hand store in town. The house (apartment) looks totally different from Thursday, but it looks more like a home.
9. My gf really likes watching me play video games. How many guys can say that? OK, she likes watching most games but she really likes watching and helping me play the newest Splinter Cell game. It’s a 1st-person shooter game, where you’re a CIA special ops guy (well rogue CIA guy in this one), but it’s a thinking game where you have to figure things out to move on to new rooms or places. There is a puzzle aspect that she loves. It’s a great game series, too.
10. Happy Birthday to Joe Montana, Gene Wilder, Hugh Laurie, Ryan Dunn, Joshua Jackson, Diana Taurasi (same year as me), José Reyes, Shia LaBeouf and the late-great Vince Lombardi.
1. First, Happy Birthday to me! Yep, I’m 30 today. It’s a bit sad but I’m trying to accept it and keep enjoying my day.
2. It’s been a good Monday and b-day so far. I got to work at a good time and the paper is done for the day.
3. I can’t believe I’m 30. It sounds so old. I was ok being in my middle, then late 20s. But 30...yikes!
4. Happy belated birthday to my niece. She turned 2 yesterday and from what I heard, she had a fun day of playing outside. She got some cool presents, too.
5. My girlfriend gave me part of my b-day gift last week. She bought me the DVD of the movie “Safe House” - great movie. Then last night at midnight, I got the other part. It’s an ATARI!!! Yep, an old school looking Atari that you just plug into your tv and it has around 60 games. I played it at lunch - loved it. My gf is awesome. She knew I wanted it and she got it. Love you babe!!
6. My mom and her 2 sisters (my aunts) came up for the weekend. Our 3rd straight weekend with visitors and we got more this weekend. Yay! It was fun seeing them and hanging out, though a bit crazy as expected. They bought me lunch Saturday, a b-day dinner Saturday and lunch yesterday. We all went to the local casino for an hour Saturday just to goof around - I lost $20, oh well.
7. My dad called me this morning at 8 a.m. When I wasn’t living with him, he’d always call on my bday. He does with us kids and his grandkids. Thanks for the call and happy birthday wishes dad!
8. My mom and aunts brought my gf and I furniture — a bed (mom moved and didn’t need it) and a love seat (gma bought it at an estate sale). Thank you all very much! My gf and I also bought a small table and chairs (really benches) for $65 at a 2nd hand store in town. The house (apartment) looks totally different from Thursday, but it looks more like a home.
9. My gf really likes watching me play video games. How many guys can say that? OK, she likes watching most games but she really likes watching and helping me play the newest Splinter Cell game. It’s a 1st-person shooter game, where you’re a CIA special ops guy (well rogue CIA guy in this one), but it’s a thinking game where you have to figure things out to move on to new rooms or places. There is a puzzle aspect that she loves. It’s a great game series, too.
10. Happy Birthday to Joe Montana, Gene Wilder, Hugh Laurie, Ryan Dunn, Joshua Jackson, Diana Taurasi (same year as me), José Reyes, Shia LaBeouf and the late-great Vince Lombardi.
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Photos with kiddos
My nephews and niece visited last weekend.
Here are some pics from our lunch at Pizza Ranch and our fun at the local playground.
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| "Sissy" wearing Rachel's "catwoman" sunglasses. |
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| She ate some creamy pudding or something, well she wore it, not sure she ate much. |
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| OJ climbed this himself. I was worried he might fall, but he impressed me. |
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| Tman climbed all the way across the monkey bars! Rachel tried behind him - not sure she made it. |
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| Ummm, ya 2 adults atop the playground making crazy faces! Who are those 2???? |
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Top 5 Tuesdays: Eagles songs
I thought this would be an easier list to make b/c I simply love the Eagles. They’re probably my favorite band and first I saw in concert.
However, it was tough to pick a Top 5 with soooooo many good songs. The top few were easy but the last 1 or 2 were very tough.
Honorable mention:
“Already Gone” — fun, energetic song to crank up in the car
“Peaceful Easy Feeling” — soothing, beautiful, good to listen to while falling asleep
“Get Over It” — love it when they rock out a bit and they do in this one
“One Of These Nights” — a lil rock, a lil eerie with great singing makes for a very good song
“The Last Resort” — underrated song but very beautiful. It’s one of my favorites.
5. “Witchy Woman” — Maybe questionable, but it has all of the typical Eagles highlights - lil rock, lil high-pitched singing and great melody. Plus it’s a bit creepy and eerie. Overall, great song.
4. “Desperado” — This might be higher on other people’s lists. It was hard to drop it to #4 but that’s where it is. One of the greatest love songs ever! “The queen of hearts is always your best bet.” Gotta crank it up and belt it out.
3. “Seven Bridges Road” — Here’s my big surprise! However, anyone who knows the song and likes it - simply loves it! It’s very different from the rest but it’s AWESOME!! Starts out in acapella and then gently brings in what sounds like acoustic guitar. Maybe the best Eagles song to belt out very loud!!
2. “Take it Easy” — This could have been #1 and has a good argument for it. Can’t think of the Eagles and not think this one - maybe their first big hit or very close. It’s also one of the best songs ever to roll down the windows in your car, crank it up and sing while driving on a road trip. The song makes you feel good :) Plus, I need to visit Winslow, AZ, so I can stand on corner and take a picture of myself.
1. “Hotel California” — While the last one could be #1, let’s face it, this is the greatest Eagles song! Hotel California and Eagles go together like peanut butter & jelly. The very eerie melody and Don Henley’s voice make an incredible match. Throw in some sweet guitar riffs at the end and you’re rocking out but a lil creeped out by the song at the same time. I mean, after all, “you can check out, but you can’t ever leave.”
There is the list. Please comment and/or debate. What song would you have #1? Which one did I forget?
However, it was tough to pick a Top 5 with soooooo many good songs. The top few were easy but the last 1 or 2 were very tough.
Honorable mention:
“Already Gone” — fun, energetic song to crank up in the car
“Peaceful Easy Feeling” — soothing, beautiful, good to listen to while falling asleep
“Get Over It” — love it when they rock out a bit and they do in this one
“One Of These Nights” — a lil rock, a lil eerie with great singing makes for a very good song
“The Last Resort” — underrated song but very beautiful. It’s one of my favorites.
5. “Witchy Woman” — Maybe questionable, but it has all of the typical Eagles highlights - lil rock, lil high-pitched singing and great melody. Plus it’s a bit creepy and eerie. Overall, great song.
4. “Desperado” — This might be higher on other people’s lists. It was hard to drop it to #4 but that’s where it is. One of the greatest love songs ever! “The queen of hearts is always your best bet.” Gotta crank it up and belt it out.
3. “Seven Bridges Road” — Here’s my big surprise! However, anyone who knows the song and likes it - simply loves it! It’s very different from the rest but it’s AWESOME!! Starts out in acapella and then gently brings in what sounds like acoustic guitar. Maybe the best Eagles song to belt out very loud!!
2. “Take it Easy” — This could have been #1 and has a good argument for it. Can’t think of the Eagles and not think this one - maybe their first big hit or very close. It’s also one of the best songs ever to roll down the windows in your car, crank it up and sing while driving on a road trip. The song makes you feel good :) Plus, I need to visit Winslow, AZ, so I can stand on corner and take a picture of myself.
1. “Hotel California” — While the last one could be #1, let’s face it, this is the greatest Eagles song! Hotel California and Eagles go together like peanut butter & jelly. The very eerie melody and Don Henley’s voice make an incredible match. Throw in some sweet guitar riffs at the end and you’re rocking out but a lil creeped out by the song at the same time. I mean, after all, “you can check out, but you can’t ever leave.”
There is the list. Please comment and/or debate. What song would you have #1? Which one did I forget?
Monday, June 4, 2012
Monday Mumbles
Since I just did a late-week Mumbles on Thursday, this will be a shortened version today. I will try to get back on my normal blogger schedule this week and try to post something most days.
1. My older sister and her 3 kids came to visit over the weekend. It was a blast! The 2 younger kids wake up too early!! They are crazy and loud but too adorable and goofy :)
2. My mom is coming this weekend. Yep, 3 straight weekends of visitors and will most likely be 4 when a friend comes up the following weekend. It’s fun and keeps me from going bored.
3. One week till my 30th, ugh!, birthday! I usually look forward to birthdays, but not so much this one. Oh well, I can’t avoid it. Just need to embrace it.
4. I watched my first movie starring Kristen Stewart. NO it wasn’t a Twilight movie!! I saw Snow White & The Huntsman last night. Good movie and I like Charlize Theron and Chris Hemsworth. But my lord — how awful is Kristen Stewart? She is horrrrrrrrrrible!! Same facial expression all of the time. I was told she has the same face for any emotion and it’s true. Her mouth is half-open or as I like to say “dull stare of idiot” look. She doesn’t really smile or look sad or angry. I’m convinced that a better casting job for her character could have made it a lot better movie. Maybe Jennifer Lawrence (Hunger Games) or even Keira Knightley (maybe too old for the part) but somebody else, please!!
5. How does one enjoy summer league ultimate frisbee when his/her team isn’t good? I know it’s just for fun, but if you’re competitive, as people on this team are, how do you play for fun and not get frustrated at losing? I’m trying my best and I have lots of fun, but losing sucks!
Have a good week! Top 5 Tuesdays returns tomorrow with something exciting.
1. My older sister and her 3 kids came to visit over the weekend. It was a blast! The 2 younger kids wake up too early!! They are crazy and loud but too adorable and goofy :)
2. My mom is coming this weekend. Yep, 3 straight weekends of visitors and will most likely be 4 when a friend comes up the following weekend. It’s fun and keeps me from going bored.
3. One week till my 30th, ugh!, birthday! I usually look forward to birthdays, but not so much this one. Oh well, I can’t avoid it. Just need to embrace it.
4. I watched my first movie starring Kristen Stewart. NO it wasn’t a Twilight movie!! I saw Snow White & The Huntsman last night. Good movie and I like Charlize Theron and Chris Hemsworth. But my lord — how awful is Kristen Stewart? She is horrrrrrrrrrible!! Same facial expression all of the time. I was told she has the same face for any emotion and it’s true. Her mouth is half-open or as I like to say “dull stare of idiot” look. She doesn’t really smile or look sad or angry. I’m convinced that a better casting job for her character could have made it a lot better movie. Maybe Jennifer Lawrence (Hunger Games) or even Keira Knightley (maybe too old for the part) but somebody else, please!!
5. How does one enjoy summer league ultimate frisbee when his/her team isn’t good? I know it’s just for fun, but if you’re competitive, as people on this team are, how do you play for fun and not get frustrated at losing? I’m trying my best and I have lots of fun, but losing sucks!
Have a good week! Top 5 Tuesdays returns tomorrow with something exciting.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Not So (Monday) Mumbles
I apologize to my handful of readers that I didn’t have a Monday Mumbles or Top 5 Tuesday this week. It’s been hectic with the holiday and then busy at work the past 2 days. I covered state girls golf the last 2 days and I’m finally in the office today.
Here are my mumbles for the week.
1. This day is taking FOREVER!!
2. Feels like I haven’t been at work in almost a week. I was in the office for about 30 minutes Tuesday before going to state golf. Then I was here for a couple hours in the morning yesterday, then off to golf. Feels weird to be in the office for a long time today.
3. My gf and I went out to the local lake on Memorial Day for a little bit. We put our feet in the water, but mostly went to check it out and get out of the house. It’s a nice lil lake with a beach/playground area and plenty of fishing spots.
4. My dad and 2 younger sisters visited Friday night thru Sunday morning. On Saturday, we drove an hour to Iowa City - spent about an hour there. Then drove 1.5 hours to Dyersville to see the “Field of Dreams” movie site. We played catch, played an inning of a softball game and then took pictures. Then drove 2 hours back home. Long day but fun times :)
5. My older sister and her 2 sons might come up this weekend. I hope they do. I miss seeing my nephews - crazy but fun lil guys!
6. Saw the movie “Battleship” last week. It’s awesome! They incorporate old WWII sailors and the famous USS Missouri into the movie. I advise any old or current Navy guys to check it out or anyone who loves action movies.
7. We now have Wifi and cable at the house. Looooooove it!! Since I don’t get great AT&T reception at my house, my iPhone was soooo slow or didn’t work at times. Not anymore - works soooooo fast!!!
8. The local girls golf team finished fourth out of 8 teams at state. They were 1 shot from 3rd. Two of the girls placed 4th and 5th individually so very cool to cover a good golf team. Only problem, they lose 5 seniors of the 7 girls on the team. However, the 4th place girl is a sophomore.
9. Congrats to the Baldwin High track teams. Both both & girls finished 2nd at state. Awesome job Bulldogs! They won 5 events combined.
10. I really missed being at the state meet in Wichita. It was tough not to go down and watch but too long of a drive and family was coming to visit. I still root for the Bulldogs - they are my alma mater and I covered them for 7 years after college. I’m here in Iowa but my heart will remain in Baldwin.
Here are my mumbles for the week.
1. This day is taking FOREVER!!
2. Feels like I haven’t been at work in almost a week. I was in the office for about 30 minutes Tuesday before going to state golf. Then I was here for a couple hours in the morning yesterday, then off to golf. Feels weird to be in the office for a long time today.
3. My gf and I went out to the local lake on Memorial Day for a little bit. We put our feet in the water, but mostly went to check it out and get out of the house. It’s a nice lil lake with a beach/playground area and plenty of fishing spots.
4. My dad and 2 younger sisters visited Friday night thru Sunday morning. On Saturday, we drove an hour to Iowa City - spent about an hour there. Then drove 1.5 hours to Dyersville to see the “Field of Dreams” movie site. We played catch, played an inning of a softball game and then took pictures. Then drove 2 hours back home. Long day but fun times :)
5. My older sister and her 2 sons might come up this weekend. I hope they do. I miss seeing my nephews - crazy but fun lil guys!
6. Saw the movie “Battleship” last week. It’s awesome! They incorporate old WWII sailors and the famous USS Missouri into the movie. I advise any old or current Navy guys to check it out or anyone who loves action movies.
7. We now have Wifi and cable at the house. Looooooove it!! Since I don’t get great AT&T reception at my house, my iPhone was soooo slow or didn’t work at times. Not anymore - works soooooo fast!!!
8. The local girls golf team finished fourth out of 8 teams at state. They were 1 shot from 3rd. Two of the girls placed 4th and 5th individually so very cool to cover a good golf team. Only problem, they lose 5 seniors of the 7 girls on the team. However, the 4th place girl is a sophomore.
9. Congrats to the Baldwin High track teams. Both both & girls finished 2nd at state. Awesome job Bulldogs! They won 5 events combined.
10. I really missed being at the state meet in Wichita. It was tough not to go down and watch but too long of a drive and family was coming to visit. I still root for the Bulldogs - they are my alma mater and I covered them for 7 years after college. I’m here in Iowa but my heart will remain in Baldwin.
Thursday, May 24, 2012
30 for 30 goals
Sadly, I turn 30 years old next month. It's actually in a couple weeks, YIKES!! For my 30th birthday, I'm going to make a year-long list of 30 things I really want and could accomplish before I turn 31. However, I am having troubles coming up with 30 things. I like most, if not all, to be something new that I've never done or a really good challenge. Also, I'd like most of them to be free or cheap, not travel everywhere b/c that won't happen.
I need help coming up with ideas. Please suggest some for me!
Here are 10 ideas I have so far:
1. Run the Warrior Dash
2. Visit New York City
3. Read 3 classic books
4. Score 200 or better in a game of bowling
5. Shoot under 100 for an 18-hole round of golf
6. Run a marathon
7. Watch an NCAA Tournament basketball game live
8. Attend an NFL game
9. Complete three puzzles of 500 or more pieces
10. Try a new recipe
I need help coming up with ideas. Please suggest some for me!
Here are 10 ideas I have so far:
1. Run the Warrior Dash
2. Visit New York City
3. Read 3 classic books
4. Score 200 or better in a game of bowling
5. Shoot under 100 for an 18-hole round of golf
6. Run a marathon
7. Watch an NCAA Tournament basketball game live
8. Attend an NFL game
9. Complete three puzzles of 500 or more pieces
10. Try a new recipe
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Top Five Tuesday: Holidays
With Memorial Day coming Monday, I thought I’d take a lighter approach to my Top 5 this week. Here are my Top 5 Favorite Holidays:
5. Labor Day — To me, it’s the official start to fall. Football is here, but it’s still warm enough to enjoy a last bit of summer with a 3-day weekend.
4. Memorial Day — It’s a very special day for many people. A chance to remember loved ones and honor them with flowers at the cemetery. Also a chance to spend time with family and/or friends - maybe a cookout or boating. It’s also kind of the official start to summer.
3. Thanksgiving — Turkey for me, Turkey for you, everybody loves Turkey! Gotta love spending time with family and enjoying lots of food and football. It also has become the start to Christmas shopping season with the dreaded “Black Friday” the day after. But I’ll enjoy my full belly before any shopping!
2. Independence Day — This was a close 2nd. I love spending the day with lots of family and some friends blowing stuff up, swimming and more food than should be consumed in a day. Constant snacking and fireworks. I’ll get to enjoy it without any work this year for the first time in years. Too bad, you can’t shoot or buy fireworks in Iowa :(
1. Christmas — I mean, c’mon, how can this not be #1? Santa, presents, snow, family, holiday cheer and the Christmas songs!!! I’ve always loved Christmas as a kid and now as an adult. Yeah, I’ll be honest, it’s nice to receive presents, but it’s more fun watching others open gifts from you, especially nieces and nephews or parents. It’s a lot of family time around Christmas but I enjoy it. Plus I’m a sucker for the songs and houses decorated with lights. The movies like Rudolph, Frosty and Christmas Vacation are classics. I just love it all :)
5. Labor Day — To me, it’s the official start to fall. Football is here, but it’s still warm enough to enjoy a last bit of summer with a 3-day weekend.
4. Memorial Day — It’s a very special day for many people. A chance to remember loved ones and honor them with flowers at the cemetery. Also a chance to spend time with family and/or friends - maybe a cookout or boating. It’s also kind of the official start to summer.
3. Thanksgiving — Turkey for me, Turkey for you, everybody loves Turkey! Gotta love spending time with family and enjoying lots of food and football. It also has become the start to Christmas shopping season with the dreaded “Black Friday” the day after. But I’ll enjoy my full belly before any shopping!
2. Independence Day — This was a close 2nd. I love spending the day with lots of family and some friends blowing stuff up, swimming and more food than should be consumed in a day. Constant snacking and fireworks. I’ll get to enjoy it without any work this year for the first time in years. Too bad, you can’t shoot or buy fireworks in Iowa :(
1. Christmas — I mean, c’mon, how can this not be #1? Santa, presents, snow, family, holiday cheer and the Christmas songs!!! I’ve always loved Christmas as a kid and now as an adult. Yeah, I’ll be honest, it’s nice to receive presents, but it’s more fun watching others open gifts from you, especially nieces and nephews or parents. It’s a lot of family time around Christmas but I enjoy it. Plus I’m a sucker for the songs and houses decorated with lights. The movies like Rudolph, Frosty and Christmas Vacation are classics. I just love it all :)
Monday, May 21, 2012
Monday Mumbles
My weekly afternoon mumbles. Here ya go.
1. It’s been a busy day already. Got to work at 8 and worked hard to finish the paper, which we did around 12:45. I worked till about 2 last night, so I’m tired, but I have a baseball game to cover tonight.
2. My nickname should be the Energizer Bunny, b/c I keep going and going and going. I don't often get wiped out, despite a few hours of sleep and busy day after busy day. I did that that Thursday-Saturday and I will most of this week.
3. We normally paginate on Mondays and Wednesdays. Next Monday is Memorial Day (yay! for paid vacation), but that pushes our deadline to Friday at noon, yikes! So we are putting together 3 papers this week and 1 of them won’t come out till next Wednesday. Makes no sense but it’s what we have to do.
4. My gf and I went cosmic bowling on Saturday night. It’s $10 for shoes and all you can bowl from 9:30 pm till 12:30 am at the local bowling alley. I bowled about 4-5 games, she bowled lil over 2 b/c it hurts her wrist, which she broke years ago.
5. We decided it would be fun to make that a weekly or more likely every-other-week tradition. It’s fairly cheap and fun.
6. I spent much of Saturday in Des Moines at the state track meet. I was also there Thursday and Friday from 9 am to 3-4 pm each day. I love track and it’s fun watching kids in a new state. Always impressive what some of the high school kids can do.
7. We made brownies last night....mmmmmmmm :)
8. My gf found out she is working both days this weekend :( but the store is just opening, so she has no choice.
9. It’s really no good b/c we are having visitors this weekend. My dad and two younger sisters are coming up for about 2 days. It should be fun, but not sure what we are going to do.
10. Did I mention, the first visitors are coming? woot!!!!!! Also a good friend might be coming here Wednesday to visit and another 1 or 2 in a few weeks.
Have a good week and check back tomorrow for the Top 5 Holidays.
1. It’s been a busy day already. Got to work at 8 and worked hard to finish the paper, which we did around 12:45. I worked till about 2 last night, so I’m tired, but I have a baseball game to cover tonight.
2. My nickname should be the Energizer Bunny, b/c I keep going and going and going. I don't often get wiped out, despite a few hours of sleep and busy day after busy day. I did that that Thursday-Saturday and I will most of this week.
3. We normally paginate on Mondays and Wednesdays. Next Monday is Memorial Day (yay! for paid vacation), but that pushes our deadline to Friday at noon, yikes! So we are putting together 3 papers this week and 1 of them won’t come out till next Wednesday. Makes no sense but it’s what we have to do.
4. My gf and I went cosmic bowling on Saturday night. It’s $10 for shoes and all you can bowl from 9:30 pm till 12:30 am at the local bowling alley. I bowled about 4-5 games, she bowled lil over 2 b/c it hurts her wrist, which she broke years ago.
5. We decided it would be fun to make that a weekly or more likely every-other-week tradition. It’s fairly cheap and fun.
6. I spent much of Saturday in Des Moines at the state track meet. I was also there Thursday and Friday from 9 am to 3-4 pm each day. I love track and it’s fun watching kids in a new state. Always impressive what some of the high school kids can do.
7. We made brownies last night....mmmmmmmm :)
8. My gf found out she is working both days this weekend :( but the store is just opening, so she has no choice.
9. It’s really no good b/c we are having visitors this weekend. My dad and two younger sisters are coming up for about 2 days. It should be fun, but not sure what we are going to do.
10. Did I mention, the first visitors are coming? woot!!!!!! Also a good friend might be coming here Wednesday to visit and another 1 or 2 in a few weeks.
Have a good week and check back tomorrow for the Top 5 Holidays.
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Top 5 Tuesday: Mario mania
I’m venturing into the world of video games today for my weekly Top 5 List. I’ve been an owner or sibling of an owner of the Nintendo, Super Nintendo, N64, GameCube and Wii, so I’ve played my fair share of Nintendo games. Of course, those include everyone’s favorite Italian plumber — Mario!
He’s been featured in dozens, if not more than 100 games over the last 25 or so years. We all know which ones are really good and popular, but here are my Top 5 Mario games:
Honorable mention:
Super Mario Bros. 2 - it’s like Mario on an acid trip and very different from the other Mario games, but had it’s memorable moments and characters - Birdo;
Donkey Kong - it was Mario’s debut, but not technically as Mario, but well all know it was him jumping barrels and climbing ladders;
Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games - set in Beijing - the two rivals and their friends come together for an Olympic competition - good fun and way better than the new one set in London;
Super Mario Bros Wii - it’s similar to the original game, with new stuff added in, but you can play up to 4 players simultaneously - madness! It’s a chance for us to regain our childhood but with friends in a wild game of Mario.
5. Mario Golf (N64) — This one may be controversial and a bit unknown for most people, but those who have played it will understand. It was a fun, entertaining way to play golf — as Mario, Luigi or other Super Mario characters like Bowser. You could push buttons and make noise while your friends were swinging. A true classic that I played for many hours.
4. Super Mario Bros. (NES) — Yep, the original game that boosted Mario into fame and captured our hearts is only #4. We still love the game and its sound effect and graphics. Nothing more exciting than climbing stairs, leaping for faith, clinging to a large flag pole and then running inside an abandoned looking castle - only to move on to the next level. Love it!
3. Super Mario Bros. 3 (NES) — Some might argue the original is better, but for me, I loved the ability to take the leaf and fly. We learned Bowser has a handful of children, whom we had to defeat world by world. This game took the original and made it newer and better. It’s still tough trying to match up the head, body and feet of the mushroom, flower and star in that bonus game.
2. Super Mario World (SNES) — We’ve now taken a jump to the Super Nintendo. One reason this one is higher than the previous 2 — Yoshi. Who doesn’t love the green dinosaur, who can turn into other colors later in the game. He could fly with you and eat almost anything, while protecting you. New baddies were created for this one. I spent many, many hours in junior high and some in high school playing this game. I’ve even played it a couple years ago - never gets old - especially with Star Road.
1. Super Mario Kart (SNES) — Hard to argue this isn’t the best. It’s not the traditional Mario game, but it took racing games to a whole new level and entertainment for everyone. We learned about Rainbow Road and Ghost Valley. Some might even argue the later games are better, but having played those, I beg to differ. The original game let talent win outright. There was no computer assistance - hence my good friend, who nearly perfected some levels, could almost lap me, even if I took 2nd place. Red Koopa shells and Stars were the best! Ahhhhh, the good ole days! I’d say the Wii version is the next best version, but can’t beat the classic!
He’s been featured in dozens, if not more than 100 games over the last 25 or so years. We all know which ones are really good and popular, but here are my Top 5 Mario games:
Honorable mention:
Super Mario Bros. 2 - it’s like Mario on an acid trip and very different from the other Mario games, but had it’s memorable moments and characters - Birdo;
Donkey Kong - it was Mario’s debut, but not technically as Mario, but well all know it was him jumping barrels and climbing ladders;
Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games - set in Beijing - the two rivals and their friends come together for an Olympic competition - good fun and way better than the new one set in London;
Super Mario Bros Wii - it’s similar to the original game, with new stuff added in, but you can play up to 4 players simultaneously - madness! It’s a chance for us to regain our childhood but with friends in a wild game of Mario.
5. Mario Golf (N64) — This one may be controversial and a bit unknown for most people, but those who have played it will understand. It was a fun, entertaining way to play golf — as Mario, Luigi or other Super Mario characters like Bowser. You could push buttons and make noise while your friends were swinging. A true classic that I played for many hours.
4. Super Mario Bros. (NES) — Yep, the original game that boosted Mario into fame and captured our hearts is only #4. We still love the game and its sound effect and graphics. Nothing more exciting than climbing stairs, leaping for faith, clinging to a large flag pole and then running inside an abandoned looking castle - only to move on to the next level. Love it!
3. Super Mario Bros. 3 (NES) — Some might argue the original is better, but for me, I loved the ability to take the leaf and fly. We learned Bowser has a handful of children, whom we had to defeat world by world. This game took the original and made it newer and better. It’s still tough trying to match up the head, body and feet of the mushroom, flower and star in that bonus game.
2. Super Mario World (SNES) — We’ve now taken a jump to the Super Nintendo. One reason this one is higher than the previous 2 — Yoshi. Who doesn’t love the green dinosaur, who can turn into other colors later in the game. He could fly with you and eat almost anything, while protecting you. New baddies were created for this one. I spent many, many hours in junior high and some in high school playing this game. I’ve even played it a couple years ago - never gets old - especially with Star Road.
1. Super Mario Kart (SNES) — Hard to argue this isn’t the best. It’s not the traditional Mario game, but it took racing games to a whole new level and entertainment for everyone. We learned about Rainbow Road and Ghost Valley. Some might even argue the later games are better, but having played those, I beg to differ. The original game let talent win outright. There was no computer assistance - hence my good friend, who nearly perfected some levels, could almost lap me, even if I took 2nd place. Red Koopa shells and Stars were the best! Ahhhhh, the good ole days! I’d say the Wii version is the next best version, but can’t beat the classic!
Monday, May 14, 2012
Monday Mumbles
It’s Monday afternoon and I have plenty of information to mumble about, some good, some frustrating.
Let’s start with the good first.
1. My girlfriend officially moved in yesterday. So, yep it’s official and it’s going well so far :) We both know it’s a big step, but we are both ready and both want to do this.
2. To celebrate (not really a celebration) we went to dinner at Applebees and shopped at the (devil) Walmart.
3. She had an interview at the local hardware store, which will be opening soon, this afternoon. It was a quick interview and she was offered a full-time job with good pay, woot! She goes in tomorrow morning for some training.
4. My dad and younger sisters might be coming to visit on Memorial Day weekend. I can tell my dad really wants to come visit, but can’t find a time to get anyone else to come with him. But Memorial Day weekend looks promising. I hope they visit :)
5. I start my summer league ultimate frisbee on Wednesday evening. Should be fun. I played a pick-up game last Wednesday and played well. I even “skied” a guy for a score. Short white boys can jump!!
6. Ok, the frustrating news. I had 2 emails today from people complaining about the sports coverage I do. Neither had valid complaint, but it urgs me!!
7. The first one — I assume from a parent or maybe grandparent of a boy golfer — mad about how I supposedly cover the best boy golfer too much. I run a lot of photos of him and the stories are all about him. The truth — I’ve run 2 photos of him in almost 2 months on the job and I’ve interviewed him once - a month ago. Last week’s story was about him because he was the league runner-up and the team finished 7th of 8 schools. I mentioned all of the varsity kids’ names and scores and it was a short article, so not all about the best kid.
8. Time to rant: I’m sorry to all parents or relatives that think their kid is the greatest athlete and should get more playing time or more coverage from the newspaper. Wake up people! I wasn’t that good at many sports. I became decent at running and had my name in the paper a few times, but I wasn’t the best kid so I didn’t get covered a lot - that’s life. My parents didn't complain - that I know about — and they wouldn’t. If you’re kid is the 3rd or 4th best on a bad team, feel good they got mentioned in the article at all, especially during a busy sports season. He or she may have played well, but if they aren’t producing results that people look for - the top 1 or 2 or 3 - then it’s not a big deal to the press. Sorry! The top kids get most of that coverage - people wanna read about who won or who came close, not the guy who placed 30th out of 40. Just be glad your kid got mentioned in the paper and if he or she is enjoying the sport, then be glad. Stop worrying about if a newspaper article is about him. Let me do my job and I won’t come down and tell you how to do your job better. I wish I could do that to many people, but it’s not my place.
9. Whew! That stuff fires me up, especially since I’ve been on the job 6 weeks. I had another email about the state youth bowling tourney that was in town the past 5 or 6 weekends. I went out and took pics, but it’s hard to get good ones in bowling and the kids never seemed excited to be there. Plus, it was kinda boring, but I did a bit of coverage. I haven’t had space to run the stuff yet, b/c I have 4 sports (boys and girls both, so 8 teams) playing at the high school, plus 4 jr. high teams right now. The bowling alley owner writes me asking why there was no article last week. I got the email a day after we finished our paper, but I’m going to do an article this week. I’m sorry but school district sports take precedence over youth bowling, any sports writer would agree.
10. Enough ranting, I feel better. I got a busy night of work and a busy week and weekend. Wish me luck!
Let’s start with the good first.
1. My girlfriend officially moved in yesterday. So, yep it’s official and it’s going well so far :) We both know it’s a big step, but we are both ready and both want to do this.
2. To celebrate (not really a celebration) we went to dinner at Applebees and shopped at the (devil) Walmart.
3. She had an interview at the local hardware store, which will be opening soon, this afternoon. It was a quick interview and she was offered a full-time job with good pay, woot! She goes in tomorrow morning for some training.
4. My dad and younger sisters might be coming to visit on Memorial Day weekend. I can tell my dad really wants to come visit, but can’t find a time to get anyone else to come with him. But Memorial Day weekend looks promising. I hope they visit :)
5. I start my summer league ultimate frisbee on Wednesday evening. Should be fun. I played a pick-up game last Wednesday and played well. I even “skied” a guy for a score. Short white boys can jump!!
6. Ok, the frustrating news. I had 2 emails today from people complaining about the sports coverage I do. Neither had valid complaint, but it urgs me!!
7. The first one — I assume from a parent or maybe grandparent of a boy golfer — mad about how I supposedly cover the best boy golfer too much. I run a lot of photos of him and the stories are all about him. The truth — I’ve run 2 photos of him in almost 2 months on the job and I’ve interviewed him once - a month ago. Last week’s story was about him because he was the league runner-up and the team finished 7th of 8 schools. I mentioned all of the varsity kids’ names and scores and it was a short article, so not all about the best kid.
8. Time to rant: I’m sorry to all parents or relatives that think their kid is the greatest athlete and should get more playing time or more coverage from the newspaper. Wake up people! I wasn’t that good at many sports. I became decent at running and had my name in the paper a few times, but I wasn’t the best kid so I didn’t get covered a lot - that’s life. My parents didn't complain - that I know about — and they wouldn’t. If you’re kid is the 3rd or 4th best on a bad team, feel good they got mentioned in the article at all, especially during a busy sports season. He or she may have played well, but if they aren’t producing results that people look for - the top 1 or 2 or 3 - then it’s not a big deal to the press. Sorry! The top kids get most of that coverage - people wanna read about who won or who came close, not the guy who placed 30th out of 40. Just be glad your kid got mentioned in the paper and if he or she is enjoying the sport, then be glad. Stop worrying about if a newspaper article is about him. Let me do my job and I won’t come down and tell you how to do your job better. I wish I could do that to many people, but it’s not my place.
9. Whew! That stuff fires me up, especially since I’ve been on the job 6 weeks. I had another email about the state youth bowling tourney that was in town the past 5 or 6 weekends. I went out and took pics, but it’s hard to get good ones in bowling and the kids never seemed excited to be there. Plus, it was kinda boring, but I did a bit of coverage. I haven’t had space to run the stuff yet, b/c I have 4 sports (boys and girls both, so 8 teams) playing at the high school, plus 4 jr. high teams right now. The bowling alley owner writes me asking why there was no article last week. I got the email a day after we finished our paper, but I’m going to do an article this week. I’m sorry but school district sports take precedence over youth bowling, any sports writer would agree.
10. Enough ranting, I feel better. I got a busy night of work and a busy week and weekend. Wish me luck!
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Wacky Weather Wednesday
A few hours after my girlfriend's college graduation last Friday,
I returned to my mom's hotel with her and my aunt.
We finished our lunch and returned to the hotel.
It was beginning to get partly cloudy, but 20 minutes later I go outside
as we are about to leave for the graduation party
and this is what I see:
I'm guessing 40-50 mph winds that about knocked me over!
Nasty looking clouds blew in quick!!
Not to mention, the dust storm blowing across the highway about 1/4 of a mile south of us. Craziness!
Needless to say, I went inside and people well yelling "Tornado Warning. There's a tornado a mile west of here." People were starting to panic. I calmly went upstairs, told my mom and aunt, we came downstairs and watched the weather on the TV. We were briefly in a tornado warning, then severe thunderstorm warning for 20 minutes. Then nothing. Blue skies :) about 40 minutes later.
Just another day of wacky weather in the midwest!!!
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Top 5 Tuesday: AC/DC songs
Although, I have expanded my musical listenings, I’m still a huge fan of classic rock and always will be. It’s what I grew up listening to with my parents and I just love it, whether it’s rocking out with The Who or easy listening with Bob Seger or maybe air guitaring with ACDC. Plus, it’s fun to think or guess what certain songs are about. I may love them, but there are some songs that I have no clue what they are about.
For my Top 5 list today, I’ve chosen to resort to my classic rock heritage. Here are my Top 5 AC/DC songs of all-time:
Honorable mention:
“You shook me all night long” - classic dirty song and dance song
“Thunderstruck” - love the intro and it’s a great sports anthem
“Money talks” - Money talks, BS walks - love it. Another classic.
“Highway to Hell” - became my hometown karoake anthem
“Rock and Roll Train” - newer song but love it; love the rhythm and guitar
5. It’s a long way to the top — It’s one of their earlier songs and it’s about making it to the top in rock n’ roll. It’s got guitar, drums and bagpipes - what’s not to love? Also a sidenote I heard on the radio once is that lead singer Brian Johnson won’t sing it in concert out of honor for former lead singer Bon Scott, who originally sang the song.
4. Hells Bells — The sound of the 10 bells tolling in the beginning, followed up by powerful guitar riffs and you know what’s coming next — a pure rock song about surviving hurricane like weather! Yes, of course, there’s the whole Satan is coming for ya, but it’s a classic from the Back in Black album that you can always crank up!
3. T.N.T. — Something about chanting “oy, oy, oy” in a rock song that I love. This might not be one of their Top 5 songs, but on my list it is. It’s one of my favorites - from the simple guitar rhythm to the funny, gritty lyrics to the “oy, oy, oy” - it’s a great song and a fun one to crank up and belt in the car.
2. Back in Black — The signature AC/DC song from their famous 1980 album. It’s the first song Brian Johnson sang and he fit the part of the lead singer perfectly after Bon Scott (RIP) died. The guitar riffs are infamous, along with the screaming voice! It’s a song to honor Bon Scott and now it’s probably the most famous song by the band.
1. For those about to rock (We salute you) — Sound the cannons! It’s usually the final song at AC/DC concerts and when I saw them a couple years ago, it was awesome!! The song starts out slow but builds a bit of a tempo before the final 2-3 minutes. Then the cannons start firing and it rocks out. For those about to rock (fire) - boom! Love it, love it, love it!
It was very hard to make this list b/c I like all of these songs and many have a similar sound. But there it is, my list.
For my Top 5 list today, I’ve chosen to resort to my classic rock heritage. Here are my Top 5 AC/DC songs of all-time:
Honorable mention:
“You shook me all night long” - classic dirty song and dance song
“Thunderstruck” - love the intro and it’s a great sports anthem
“Money talks” - Money talks, BS walks - love it. Another classic.
“Highway to Hell” - became my hometown karoake anthem
“Rock and Roll Train” - newer song but love it; love the rhythm and guitar
5. It’s a long way to the top — It’s one of their earlier songs and it’s about making it to the top in rock n’ roll. It’s got guitar, drums and bagpipes - what’s not to love? Also a sidenote I heard on the radio once is that lead singer Brian Johnson won’t sing it in concert out of honor for former lead singer Bon Scott, who originally sang the song.
4. Hells Bells — The sound of the 10 bells tolling in the beginning, followed up by powerful guitar riffs and you know what’s coming next — a pure rock song about surviving hurricane like weather! Yes, of course, there’s the whole Satan is coming for ya, but it’s a classic from the Back in Black album that you can always crank up!
3. T.N.T. — Something about chanting “oy, oy, oy” in a rock song that I love. This might not be one of their Top 5 songs, but on my list it is. It’s one of my favorites - from the simple guitar rhythm to the funny, gritty lyrics to the “oy, oy, oy” - it’s a great song and a fun one to crank up and belt in the car.
2. Back in Black — The signature AC/DC song from their famous 1980 album. It’s the first song Brian Johnson sang and he fit the part of the lead singer perfectly after Bon Scott (RIP) died. The guitar riffs are infamous, along with the screaming voice! It’s a song to honor Bon Scott and now it’s probably the most famous song by the band.
1. For those about to rock (We salute you) — Sound the cannons! It’s usually the final song at AC/DC concerts and when I saw them a couple years ago, it was awesome!! The song starts out slow but builds a bit of a tempo before the final 2-3 minutes. Then the cannons start firing and it rocks out. For those about to rock (fire) - boom! Love it, love it, love it!
It was very hard to make this list b/c I like all of these songs and many have a similar sound. But there it is, my list.
Monday, May 7, 2012
Monday Mumbles
I’ve neglected my blog for almost a week (I have a good reason) and now my Mumbles are quite late. For all 3-5 people that read this, here are my thoughts today:
1. I just got back from covering girls golf for almost 3 hours. It was the league meet and the South Tama High team won the team title, while a pair of sisters took 1st and 2nd - they’re from South Tama. It’s been a fun team to cover (always helps when you win!).
2. I left Thursday afternoon for NW Iowa. My girlfriend graduated from college on Friday morning. It was a 4.5 hour drive from here.
3. I saw her family, plus my mom and aunt came up for the ceremony. It was fun to see her family and hang out with them again. The last time was Thanksgiving.
4. On Thursday night, I went with my gf and 2 of her sisters to see the Avengers at midnight (technically the beginning of Friday). It was AWESOME!!!! Possibly the best Superhero movie I’ve ever seen. Loved the action with the humor and plot - sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet movie :)
5. I might go see it again, hehe!
6. I didn’t return home until last night. Short on sleep and after a long drive, I was pooped out. I sat on my couch and almost fell asleep at 8:30.
7. However, I drank a Dr. Pepper and got my 2nd wind. It’s a blessing and a curse - my ability to be tired, but not wipe out, just get my 2nd or 3rd wind and be awake for several more hours.
8. I should be pretty busy Thursday through Saturday with work. It’s a busy time of the year for sports, woot! I will be covering track, soccer, tennis and golf - boys and girls of a couple of those.
9. I might have my 1st visitor soon. My dad wants to come up - maybe this weekend or in the near future. My mom also wants to visit - maybe in a couple weeks. We’ll see who’s the first weekend visitor.
10. Not sure what my Top 5 Tuesday will be yet. Any ideas?
1. I just got back from covering girls golf for almost 3 hours. It was the league meet and the South Tama High team won the team title, while a pair of sisters took 1st and 2nd - they’re from South Tama. It’s been a fun team to cover (always helps when you win!).
2. I left Thursday afternoon for NW Iowa. My girlfriend graduated from college on Friday morning. It was a 4.5 hour drive from here.
3. I saw her family, plus my mom and aunt came up for the ceremony. It was fun to see her family and hang out with them again. The last time was Thanksgiving.
4. On Thursday night, I went with my gf and 2 of her sisters to see the Avengers at midnight (technically the beginning of Friday). It was AWESOME!!!! Possibly the best Superhero movie I’ve ever seen. Loved the action with the humor and plot - sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet movie :)
5. I might go see it again, hehe!
6. I didn’t return home until last night. Short on sleep and after a long drive, I was pooped out. I sat on my couch and almost fell asleep at 8:30.
7. However, I drank a Dr. Pepper and got my 2nd wind. It’s a blessing and a curse - my ability to be tired, but not wipe out, just get my 2nd or 3rd wind and be awake for several more hours.
8. I should be pretty busy Thursday through Saturday with work. It’s a busy time of the year for sports, woot! I will be covering track, soccer, tennis and golf - boys and girls of a couple of those.
9. I might have my 1st visitor soon. My dad wants to come up - maybe this weekend or in the near future. My mom also wants to visit - maybe in a couple weeks. We’ll see who’s the first weekend visitor.
10. Not sure what my Top 5 Tuesday will be yet. Any ideas?
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Top 5 Tuesday: Trilogy time
This week’s “Top 5” stays on the movie beat, b/c it’s something most people can talk/argue about and I’ve watched a lot of movies since moving to Iowa - lots of time alone in the evenings does that to a man.
During the past 2 years, I created a movie trilogy/series bracket (very similar to the NCAA basketball bracket) and had my Facebook friends vote on the pairings. It’s been fun to watch, though disappointing at times, but my friends voted for the better one most of the time. However, I never voted unless it was to break a tie.
Now it’s my turn.
I expect some disagreement with my list. I’ve thought about this for a few days and this is what I’ve come up with, so please comment and discuss.
Honorable Mention: The Godfather - I’ve never sat down and actually watched them, plus I’ve heard the 3rd one is bad; Spider-Man - I enjoy the movies, but they weren’t top 5 worthy; Die Hard 1-3 - also a great trilogy and love them, but there is a 4th and the 2nd one wasn’t that great; Hannibal Lecter - Silence of the Lambs is incredible, but the others weren’t up to par; Matrix - another great 1st one but trailed off with #2 and #3; Indiana Jones - it pains me not to have this on the list, but there is a 4th and it’s awful, I considered having 1-3 on there but I chose not to cheat the list, otherwise it would be up there.
5. Bourne - This action-filled trilogy starts when he forgets who he is and finishes the way it should - with him returning to the place it began and getting revenge on those who hunted him. The fast-paced action sequences are awesome, but you also begin to see and feel a softer, human side of Jason Bourne throughout the trilogy.
4. Back to the Future - 1.21 gigiwatts, 88 mph and poof! We’re off into time travel. Michael J. Fox’s Marty McFly was one of the best movie characters from the 80s and maybe of all-time. This trilogy has enough action, humor and suspense to keep you watching. They travel back in time, to the future and then further back in time. Plus, the Delorean is a sweet looking car, though it didn’t last long.
3. Toy Story - Here is my first big surprise of the list. Some of you might argue this isn’t better than the 2 previous or some on the honorable mention list, but wait a second. People of all ages love these movies and they make us all want to be a kid again. Although the 3rd movie jumps way ahead in time, it might be the best one. All 3 are very good movies - none of them drop off in quality. The actors voices are perfect for the roles. It just makes you wonder, what do our toys do when we aren’t there?
2. Star Wars original trilogy - OK, another shocker. Many of you expected this to be first. It was a hard choice to make. The original trilogy, NOT THE NEW TRILOGY - YUCK!!, had to be 1st or 2nd. Star Wars are the movies that people will be talking about forever. We love Jedis, light sabers, the force, Chewbacca, R2D2 and Darth Vader’s Imperial March music. The movies are still huge 35 years after the 1st one came out in theater. It was nearly a coin-flip decision for 1st-2nd, but Star Wars might be the best #2 on any of my lists.
1. Lord of the Rings - While many of you might be mad about Star Wars taking #2, you can’t argue that LOTR isn’t a worthy #1. It’s hard to distinguish which trilogy is better, because both are epic and captured a generation or generations’ hearts. I gave the nod to LOTR for a couple reasons. First, the movies were filmed back-to-back and they don’t skip time in between movies. It’s one very long journey from the beginning of the Fellowship to the end of Return of the King. Second, the story touches your heart. The story by J.R.R. Tolkien is incredible and the fight of good vs. evil is epitomized throughout this long journey. Third, the graphics and detail in the movies is 2nd to none. Now, I know Star Wars was filmed long ago and those graphics are great for the time. Maybe it’s newer generation in me, but the graphics played a small role in this decision. Lastly, Orc or Urukhai scare me much more than Stormtroopers haha!
So there’s the list. I know the top 2 will be debated and argued, but this is my list. What would be on your Top 5 movie trilogies?
During the past 2 years, I created a movie trilogy/series bracket (very similar to the NCAA basketball bracket) and had my Facebook friends vote on the pairings. It’s been fun to watch, though disappointing at times, but my friends voted for the better one most of the time. However, I never voted unless it was to break a tie.
Now it’s my turn.
I expect some disagreement with my list. I’ve thought about this for a few days and this is what I’ve come up with, so please comment and discuss.
Honorable Mention: The Godfather - I’ve never sat down and actually watched them, plus I’ve heard the 3rd one is bad; Spider-Man - I enjoy the movies, but they weren’t top 5 worthy; Die Hard 1-3 - also a great trilogy and love them, but there is a 4th and the 2nd one wasn’t that great; Hannibal Lecter - Silence of the Lambs is incredible, but the others weren’t up to par; Matrix - another great 1st one but trailed off with #2 and #3; Indiana Jones - it pains me not to have this on the list, but there is a 4th and it’s awful, I considered having 1-3 on there but I chose not to cheat the list, otherwise it would be up there.
5. Bourne - This action-filled trilogy starts when he forgets who he is and finishes the way it should - with him returning to the place it began and getting revenge on those who hunted him. The fast-paced action sequences are awesome, but you also begin to see and feel a softer, human side of Jason Bourne throughout the trilogy.
4. Back to the Future - 1.21 gigiwatts, 88 mph and poof! We’re off into time travel. Michael J. Fox’s Marty McFly was one of the best movie characters from the 80s and maybe of all-time. This trilogy has enough action, humor and suspense to keep you watching. They travel back in time, to the future and then further back in time. Plus, the Delorean is a sweet looking car, though it didn’t last long.
3. Toy Story - Here is my first big surprise of the list. Some of you might argue this isn’t better than the 2 previous or some on the honorable mention list, but wait a second. People of all ages love these movies and they make us all want to be a kid again. Although the 3rd movie jumps way ahead in time, it might be the best one. All 3 are very good movies - none of them drop off in quality. The actors voices are perfect for the roles. It just makes you wonder, what do our toys do when we aren’t there?
2. Star Wars original trilogy - OK, another shocker. Many of you expected this to be first. It was a hard choice to make. The original trilogy, NOT THE NEW TRILOGY - YUCK!!, had to be 1st or 2nd. Star Wars are the movies that people will be talking about forever. We love Jedis, light sabers, the force, Chewbacca, R2D2 and Darth Vader’s Imperial March music. The movies are still huge 35 years after the 1st one came out in theater. It was nearly a coin-flip decision for 1st-2nd, but Star Wars might be the best #2 on any of my lists.
1. Lord of the Rings - While many of you might be mad about Star Wars taking #2, you can’t argue that LOTR isn’t a worthy #1. It’s hard to distinguish which trilogy is better, because both are epic and captured a generation or generations’ hearts. I gave the nod to LOTR for a couple reasons. First, the movies were filmed back-to-back and they don’t skip time in between movies. It’s one very long journey from the beginning of the Fellowship to the end of Return of the King. Second, the story touches your heart. The story by J.R.R. Tolkien is incredible and the fight of good vs. evil is epitomized throughout this long journey. Third, the graphics and detail in the movies is 2nd to none. Now, I know Star Wars was filmed long ago and those graphics are great for the time. Maybe it’s newer generation in me, but the graphics played a small role in this decision. Lastly, Orc or Urukhai scare me much more than Stormtroopers haha!
So there’s the list. I know the top 2 will be debated and argued, but this is my list. What would be on your Top 5 movie trilogies?
Monday, April 30, 2012
Monday Mumbles
I might actually be mumbling this afternoon - I’m tired but I think it’s because of my inactivity over the weekend.
1. LAZY!!!
2. Yes, I was very lazy this weekend. Too lazy!
3. I left the house on 2 occasions on Saturday - each for about an hour for work. Then on Sunday evening for work.
4. I don’t recall leaving the house at any other time during the weekend.
5. I laid and sat around playing some video games and watching movies.
6. I decided to take an adventure to Middle Earth and watch the Lord of the Rings trilogy. I own the extended versions of the final 2 movies, which are between 3-4 hours each - broken into 2 DVDs.
7. I love the feel good story behind the LOTR, despite all of the evil that happens - and there is a lot of that in the epic journey.
“What are we holding onto Sam?” Frodo asked.
“That there’s some good in this world and it’s worth fighting for.” Samwise replied.
8. Sadly, I have a really good friend who can’t make it past the first 30 minutes of the first one. Of course, that just lays out the past and doesn’t get out of the Shire. If she would just make it halfway through the movie, she’d begin to like it and watch them all. There’s great story lines that all twist together and some epic battle scenes. Might be time to tie her to a chair and force her to watch the movies. It’s like saying you haven’t seen Star Wars!!!
9. I’m waiting for the weather to warm up today - upper 60s my "#?@!" stupid weather people. It’s 50 and cloudy. I have a track meet to go to for work later and I want some sun!
10. My wonderful, sweet, beautiful, awesome,ornery (ok maybe sucking up, but all true) girlfriend graduates college in 4 days! She’s been done for months, but her ceremony is Friday. I can’t believe it’s already here!! I’m making the 4.5 hour drive up to see her, her family and some of my family. Should be a great weekend.
1. LAZY!!!
2. Yes, I was very lazy this weekend. Too lazy!
3. I left the house on 2 occasions on Saturday - each for about an hour for work. Then on Sunday evening for work.
4. I don’t recall leaving the house at any other time during the weekend.
5. I laid and sat around playing some video games and watching movies.
6. I decided to take an adventure to Middle Earth and watch the Lord of the Rings trilogy. I own the extended versions of the final 2 movies, which are between 3-4 hours each - broken into 2 DVDs.
7. I love the feel good story behind the LOTR, despite all of the evil that happens - and there is a lot of that in the epic journey.
“What are we holding onto Sam?” Frodo asked.
“That there’s some good in this world and it’s worth fighting for.” Samwise replied.
8. Sadly, I have a really good friend who can’t make it past the first 30 minutes of the first one. Of course, that just lays out the past and doesn’t get out of the Shire. If she would just make it halfway through the movie, she’d begin to like it and watch them all. There’s great story lines that all twist together and some epic battle scenes. Might be time to tie her to a chair and force her to watch the movies. It’s like saying you haven’t seen Star Wars!!!
9. I’m waiting for the weather to warm up today - upper 60s my "#?@!" stupid weather people. It’s 50 and cloudy. I have a track meet to go to for work later and I want some sun!
10. My wonderful, sweet, beautiful, awesome,
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Squirrels and golf, oh my!
Here are a few random photos I took while covering a golf meet on Tuesday.
There were a few crazy squirrels running around this tree. I shot a quick photo and it happened to look cool with the golfer in the background.
Same crazy squirrels in the tree!
An opposing golfer had a shot in a bunker and I wanted a pic of a sand shot. She was playing in the foursome that included South Tama's best 2 girls so I was with this group for a couple holes. It wasn't a great sand shot but it was my first :0
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Wackiness Wednesday - OJ style
This week's Wackiness Wednesday goes out to my nephew.
He turned 4 exactly 2 weeks ago.
Here are a couple pics from his birthday party.
His party was at a gymnastics training center that you can rent for parties. The kids play on trampolines, a huge slide and this big foam block pit. The adults play a lil, too :)
Using all of his hot air for good use - blowing out the candles!
Do any kids eat the cake? Or just enjoy the frosting?
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Top 5 Tuesday: Slammer Cinema
I decided to go a little unconventional today with my 2nd Top 5 list. I debated between epic war movies or baseball movies or something else, but I wanted a movie list after having music last week. However, I went against those ideas, saving them for later. So, here without further adieu, I give you my Top 5 Prison Movies (these are only based upon movies I’ve seen).
Honorable mention: Blues Brothers (most of the movie isn’t in prison, except beginning an end; still a classic) and The Hurricane (can’t go wrong with Denzel and he did a great job portraying Reuben Hurricane Carter).
5. The Great Escape - One of the true classic WWII movies in American cinema. A group of imprisoned American soldiers in a German Nazi camp plan an escape through 3 tunnels - Tom, Dick and Harry. Steve McQueen and others attempt the escape. Wanna see how it ends, go check it out. Great movie!
4. Escape from Alcatraz - Another classic piece of cinema art. Whether or not Frank actually escaped from the notorious prison is unknown, but finding out how they attempted it is great. Clint Eastwood is great in this movie as Morris. There’s just something about movies with ingenious prison escapes.
3. The Green Mile - Tom Hanks and Michael Clarke Duncan are great in this drama of a prison movie. Based on a Stephen King novel, Duncan’s character has a mysterious gift which he uses after being accused and sentenced to child murder. Spoiler alert: Tears will be shed in this movie. I have trouble watching the last 30 minutes if it’s on TV - I know I will cry.
2. Cool Hand Luke - This Paul Newman classic could easily be #1 on this list. Those who haven’t seen it would argue that #1 is clearly better. However, those people need to see this. Paul Newman’s character deliberately disobeys the rules of prison and attempts to eat 50 eggs. The famous quote “What we’ve got here is a failure to communicate” comes from this movie. A must watch with the late, great Paul Newman.
1. The Shawshank Redemption - Not a huge shocker here! Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman deliver some of the best acting in cinematic history. Watching Robbins slyfully weasel his way into the warden’s assistant and then get the best of him is incredible. This movie was on TV every night over a month ago, I watched bits and pieces every night, if not the whole movie. Remember “Hope is a great thing” and “Get busy living or get busy dying.”
Honorable mention: Blues Brothers (most of the movie isn’t in prison, except beginning an end; still a classic) and The Hurricane (can’t go wrong with Denzel and he did a great job portraying Reuben Hurricane Carter).
5. The Great Escape - One of the true classic WWII movies in American cinema. A group of imprisoned American soldiers in a German Nazi camp plan an escape through 3 tunnels - Tom, Dick and Harry. Steve McQueen and others attempt the escape. Wanna see how it ends, go check it out. Great movie!
4. Escape from Alcatraz - Another classic piece of cinema art. Whether or not Frank actually escaped from the notorious prison is unknown, but finding out how they attempted it is great. Clint Eastwood is great in this movie as Morris. There’s just something about movies with ingenious prison escapes.
3. The Green Mile - Tom Hanks and Michael Clarke Duncan are great in this drama of a prison movie. Based on a Stephen King novel, Duncan’s character has a mysterious gift which he uses after being accused and sentenced to child murder. Spoiler alert: Tears will be shed in this movie. I have trouble watching the last 30 minutes if it’s on TV - I know I will cry.
2. Cool Hand Luke - This Paul Newman classic could easily be #1 on this list. Those who haven’t seen it would argue that #1 is clearly better. However, those people need to see this. Paul Newman’s character deliberately disobeys the rules of prison and attempts to eat 50 eggs. The famous quote “What we’ve got here is a failure to communicate” comes from this movie. A must watch with the late, great Paul Newman.
1. The Shawshank Redemption - Not a huge shocker here! Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman deliver some of the best acting in cinematic history. Watching Robbins slyfully weasel his way into the warden’s assistant and then get the best of him is incredible. This movie was on TV every night over a month ago, I watched bits and pieces every night, if not the whole movie. Remember “Hope is a great thing” and “Get busy living or get busy dying.”
Monday, April 23, 2012
Monday Mumbles
It’s not morning mumbles, but I prefer to mumble in the afternoon, or at least I work more in the afternoon.
1. One of our papers is done, so I have time to do this. We finish the paper at or around noon, so it’s hard to do this on Monday mornings. Hence, I’m an afternoon or evening blogger.
2. The sun is shining :) I wasn’t sure Iowa had sunshine for the first few weeks. Now it needs to get temps into the 70s, please!!!!
3. I haven’t had cable for a month now.
4. It’s been kind of nice to watch less TV, but I miss it at night. It’s easier to flip thru the channels than put in South Park dvd.
5. My solution: have internet installed in the apartment and use netflix thru the xbox 360. Then I can at least choose shows to watch. But I may need cable again sometime soon. First I need internet.
6. My 7 year old nephew called me yesterday asking how to start the game of Risk. That’s complicated to explain over the phone. ESPECIALLY to a 7 year old. Now he is very smart and I think he understood but still very hard to grasp. I’ll teach him in person next time I see him. Gotta love a kid who loves sports, video games and Risk like he does!!!
7. Still awaiting a visitor or visitors. Friends or family in Kansas - its a short drive up I-35 and there are things to do.
8. There’s a nice big park for throwing a frisbee/football or playing on the playground or playing the frisbee golf course.
9. My girlfriend Rachel graduates college in 11 days :) She has been finished since December, but no winter graduation at her school. She’s been working 1 and sometimes 2 jobs since then. I’m soooooo proud of her. She’ll be the first in her family (maybe extended family too) to graduate college. It should be a fun weekend with her family and some of mine.
10. I have an itch to play golf or tennis. Anyone want to join?
1. One of our papers is done, so I have time to do this. We finish the paper at or around noon, so it’s hard to do this on Monday mornings. Hence, I’m an afternoon or evening blogger.
2. The sun is shining :) I wasn’t sure Iowa had sunshine for the first few weeks. Now it needs to get temps into the 70s, please!!!!
3. I haven’t had cable for a month now.
4. It’s been kind of nice to watch less TV, but I miss it at night. It’s easier to flip thru the channels than put in South Park dvd.
5. My solution: have internet installed in the apartment and use netflix thru the xbox 360. Then I can at least choose shows to watch. But I may need cable again sometime soon. First I need internet.
6. My 7 year old nephew called me yesterday asking how to start the game of Risk. That’s complicated to explain over the phone. ESPECIALLY to a 7 year old. Now he is very smart and I think he understood but still very hard to grasp. I’ll teach him in person next time I see him. Gotta love a kid who loves sports, video games and Risk like he does!!!
7. Still awaiting a visitor or visitors. Friends or family in Kansas - its a short drive up I-35 and there are things to do.
8. There’s a nice big park for throwing a frisbee/football or playing on the playground or playing the frisbee golf course.
9. My girlfriend Rachel graduates college in 11 days :) She has been finished since December, but no winter graduation at her school. She’s been working 1 and sometimes 2 jobs since then. I’m soooooo proud of her. She’ll be the first in her family (maybe extended family too) to graduate college. It should be a fun weekend with her family and some of mine.
10. I have an itch to play golf or tennis. Anyone want to join?
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Wackiness Wednesday
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Top 5 Tuesday: Beatlemania
Here’s the start to another new segment on my blog. I will choose a topic (most likely movies, music or sports - 3 popular topics) and write a top 5 list from that certain topic.
This is entirely my opinion. I know others will disagree, so please feel free to comment or disagree, but you should also say what your top 5 might be for that topic. I like feedback and hearing other people's opinions, so let me hear it folks. I can take criticism :)
I’m going to jump right into the fire and take heat (no pun intended) for this first topic. My Top Five Beatles songs:
Honorable mention - “I want to hold your hand”, “A day in the life”, “While my guitar gently weeps”, “Get back” and "I am the walrus”.
5. “Yellow Submarine” - Although it’s not one of the most popular or even greatest songs, it’s still a fun one. Everybody can sing along too! It was hard to choose my #5 and this is one I can listen to and have fun.
4. “Yesterday” - It’s the most covered song in history and it’s a pretty song. It’s simple but great. I mean, who doesn’t love this song?
3. “Come Together” - Despite having no idea of the actual lyrics (I think I know quite a few) or what they are singing about, I love this song. It’s the rhythm of the song and the rock aspect of it that appeals to me. Plus 1 and 1 and 1 make 3 - they teach you math!
2. “Hey Jude” - Is there anything bettah, bettah, bettah than singing "na na na na na na na na na na na" for 3 1/2 to 4 minutes? You can belt it out alone or with friends! I mean it’s a classic song and the first half of the song is great too.
1. “Let it Be” - I read a few online lists and this song didn’t crack the top 5 of those. Are you kidding me? This is one of the greatest songs ever! It’s beautiful and it was practically their last big hit together. I always crank this one up and sing loud. How can anyone not love this song?
Well, that’s my list. It was tough to choose just 5 but I did it. What’s your top Beatles song? Top 5? Share your thoughts.
This is entirely my opinion. I know others will disagree, so please feel free to comment or disagree, but you should also say what your top 5 might be for that topic. I like feedback and hearing other people's opinions, so let me hear it folks. I can take criticism :)
I’m going to jump right into the fire and take heat (
Honorable mention - “I want to hold your hand”, “A day in the life”, “While my guitar gently weeps”, “Get back” and "I am the walrus”.
5. “Yellow Submarine” - Although it’s not one of the most popular or even greatest songs, it’s still a fun one. Everybody can sing along too! It was hard to choose my #5 and this is one I can listen to and have fun.
4. “Yesterday” - It’s the most covered song in history and it’s a pretty song. It’s simple but great. I mean, who doesn’t love this song?
3. “Come Together” - Despite having no idea of the actual lyrics (I think I know quite a few) or what they are singing about, I love this song. It’s the rhythm of the song and the rock aspect of it that appeals to me. Plus 1 and 1 and 1 make 3 - they teach you math!
2. “Hey Jude” - Is there anything bettah, bettah, bettah than singing "na na na na na na na na na na na" for 3 1/2 to 4 minutes? You can belt it out alone or with friends! I mean it’s a classic song and the first half of the song is great too.
1. “Let it Be” - I read a few online lists and this song didn’t crack the top 5 of those. Are you kidding me? This is one of the greatest songs ever! It’s beautiful and it was practically their last big hit together. I always crank this one up and sing loud. How can anyone not love this song?
Well, that’s my list. It was tough to choose just 5 but I did it. What’s your top Beatles song? Top 5? Share your thoughts.
Monday, April 16, 2012
Monday Mumbles (borrowed name)
I know it’s late, but here is my first Monday Mumbles post. I “borrowed” this idea from my sister’s blog. Since I’m late today, I’ll just do 5 things on my mind this Monday afternoon.
1. I had a great trip back home this weekend. I hung out with my 2 nephews and 1 niece a lot on Saturday. I took some cool pics of them on their trampoline (those might make the blog later this week). I helped 1 nephew celebrate his 4th birthday by buying him an Angry Birds pillow. His response when opening it, “This is what I’m talking about.”
2. On Saturday night, while storms were sort of coming, sort of not doing anything in Lawrence, I went to a bar for karaoke with 2 friends. I sang “Human” by The Killers. Then I rocked out “Man in the Mirror” by Michael Jackson. My sister would have been proud. The crowd was clapping and singing - just getting into it. I got a lil standing “O” from about 10 people after it was over. VERY COOL :)
3. On Sunday night, I met up with 4 friends for our Kansas trivia finals. We played together (well 3-4 of us) for 3 months before I moved away. I was able to come back and play the finals. We didn’t finish high b/c of the last question (where we wagered big, but lost). Before the last question, we were tied for 3rd out of about 40 teams. We only missed 2 of 30 regular questions so I’d say we did well. I’ll miss trivia every Wednesday :(
4. I just made my first official post to our newspaper’s Facebook page. I have been trying to get the email and password for about a week. I got it an hour ago and posted a link to a story. So go “like” the Tama/Toledo News FB page!
5. Got my first paycheck on Friday. Woot! I will still be conservative in spending, but I will be having internet installed this week or next. It will be nice at home :)
Take care and have a great rest of the week! Don’t forget to check back here as the week goes on. Tomorrow will be the debut of “Top 5 Tuesdays” where I post my Top 5 of something. Tomorrow might be Top 5 Beatles songs? Better check back and see tomorrow!
1. I had a great trip back home this weekend. I hung out with my 2 nephews and 1 niece a lot on Saturday. I took some cool pics of them on their trampoline (those might make the blog later this week). I helped 1 nephew celebrate his 4th birthday by buying him an Angry Birds pillow. His response when opening it, “This is what I’m talking about.”
2. On Saturday night, while storms were sort of coming, sort of not doing anything in Lawrence, I went to a bar for karaoke with 2 friends. I sang “Human” by The Killers. Then I rocked out “Man in the Mirror” by Michael Jackson. My sister would have been proud. The crowd was clapping and singing - just getting into it. I got a lil standing “O” from about 10 people after it was over. VERY COOL :)
3. On Sunday night, I met up with 4 friends for our Kansas trivia finals. We played together (well 3-4 of us) for 3 months before I moved away. I was able to come back and play the finals. We didn’t finish high b/c of the last question (where we wagered big, but lost). Before the last question, we were tied for 3rd out of about 40 teams. We only missed 2 of 30 regular questions so I’d say we did well. I’ll miss trivia every Wednesday :(
4. I just made my first official post to our newspaper’s Facebook page. I have been trying to get the email and password for about a week. I got it an hour ago and posted a link to a story. So go “like” the Tama/Toledo News FB page!
5. Got my first paycheck on Friday. Woot! I will still be conservative in spending, but I will be having internet installed this week or next. It will be nice at home :)
Take care and have a great rest of the week! Don’t forget to check back here as the week goes on. Tomorrow will be the debut of “Top 5 Tuesdays” where I post my Top 5 of something. Tomorrow might be Top 5 Beatles songs? Better check back and see tomorrow!
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Wackiness Wednesday
This is the start of a new segment, where I will feature silly pictures of me, most likely with family or friends or gf. I've taken many over the years so here are a few to enjoy to start.
Me and my nephews doing what we do best - being silly and goofing around :)
Rachel and I at Christmas. I'm enjoying my new shirt from her.
Angry bird & Angry Jimmy!!!
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
New apartment pics
Here is the other living room or whatever you want to call it. It's used as storage or can be used as a room for guests to sleep.
A view from the other side of the living area - looking toward my front door (on left) and main living room.
Kitchen :)
Monday, April 9, 2012
I'm baaaack....with changes to my life
Welcome back to my blog everyone! *yay! hoozah! woooot!* I can hear the cheers now or maybe that’s the looming sound of silence (love that song). Whether anyone reads this or not, I’m back and I’m sure I’ll have a few followers.
I started this blog 2 or 3 years ago and updated it once in a while with random stuff. I’m on facebook and twitter and have a couple email accounts so I stay in touch with people pretty well. However, some big life changes have happened since the start of the new year and I thought I would bring this back as another way to keep in touch with my life and what’s happening around me.
As many of you know I was laid off in January b/c of some stupid budget cuts in the company. I won’t get too much into that b/c they got rid of me and kept amoron guy who has butchered the paper I previously worked for. Yep, I’m a journalist (if you couldn’t figure that out from the name of the blog).
Despite the setback, I stayed fairly positive and after 2 months, I landed a sports editor position at another paper. Just one big thing - it’s in Iowa.
Yep, I’m living in Iowa now. It’s a town called Tama. It’s twin city is Toledo and I work for both papers - same office and staff. I am an hour from Des Moines and about 50-60 minutes from Cedar Rapids and Iowa City. So not a bad location for a small town. It’s even smaller than Baldwin but Marshalltown is 20 minutes away and it has the essentials for a slightly larger city - Applebees, movie theater, other restaurant chains and yes of course Wal-Mart - my FAVORITE PLACE EVER!!!! (no sarcasm, ok well maybe a weeeeeeeeeeeeeeee bit).
I’ve been up there 2 full weeks now and life is good. It’s kind of nice to be out on my own and finally being responsible for pretty much everything. It’s a lil scary too but I’m doing fine. I go to work everyday, then come home, play xbox 360, watch tv episodes or a movie and eat dinner. I don’t have cable yet or internet, so my life is boring but good.
I am going to try and go through photos I’ve taken and decide which to print to have hard copies. I need something to keep myself from being too bored and this will be a good productive way.
I’ll take suggestions for ways to be productive or do something. Somebody will suggest read a book so stop right there! Maybe one day I will but highly unlikely. I might start running and getting in shape again, maybe.
Well that’s about it right now. I’m trying to think of creative topics or blogs to have each week. Like repeat blogs, such as Wacky Wednesdays might be silly pictures of me and/or family or girlfriend. My loving gf is one thing that hasn’t changed :) Maybe a Mindless Monday top 10 list of thoughts on my mind (thanks my sister’s blog of Monday Mumbles).
Anyway, peace out and check back to see what’s here. I’m going to go play in the corn haha :)
I started this blog 2 or 3 years ago and updated it once in a while with random stuff. I’m on facebook and twitter and have a couple email accounts so I stay in touch with people pretty well. However, some big life changes have happened since the start of the new year and I thought I would bring this back as another way to keep in touch with my life and what’s happening around me.
As many of you know I was laid off in January b/c of some stupid budget cuts in the company. I won’t get too much into that b/c they got rid of me and kept a
Despite the setback, I stayed fairly positive and after 2 months, I landed a sports editor position at another paper. Just one big thing - it’s in Iowa.
Yep, I’m living in Iowa now. It’s a town called Tama. It’s twin city is Toledo and I work for both papers - same office and staff. I am an hour from Des Moines and about 50-60 minutes from Cedar Rapids and Iowa City. So not a bad location for a small town. It’s even smaller than Baldwin but Marshalltown is 20 minutes away and it has the essentials for a slightly larger city - Applebees, movie theater, other restaurant chains and yes of course Wal-Mart - my FAVORITE PLACE EVER!!!! (no sarcasm, ok well maybe a weeeeeeeeeeeeeeee bit).
I’ve been up there 2 full weeks now and life is good. It’s kind of nice to be out on my own and finally being responsible for pretty much everything. It’s a lil scary too but I’m doing fine. I go to work everyday, then come home, play xbox 360, watch tv episodes or a movie and eat dinner. I don’t have cable yet or internet, so my life is boring but good.
I am going to try and go through photos I’ve taken and decide which to print to have hard copies. I need something to keep myself from being too bored and this will be a good productive way.
I’ll take suggestions for ways to be productive or do something. Somebody will suggest read a book so stop right there! Maybe one day I will but highly unlikely. I might start running and getting in shape again, maybe.
Well that’s about it right now. I’m trying to think of creative topics or blogs to have each week. Like repeat blogs, such as Wacky Wednesdays might be silly pictures of me and/or family or girlfriend. My loving gf is one thing that hasn’t changed :) Maybe a Mindless Monday top 10 list of thoughts on my mind (thanks my sister’s blog of Monday Mumbles).
Anyway, peace out and check back to see what’s here. I’m going to go play in the corn haha :)
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