Holidays Forever

It's Tuesday and the sun is hiding behind the clouds and rain.

A very brisk 44 degrees outside, not freezing, but enough to piss on any ideas of working out outside like I usually do.

The boys are playing PS3 in the living room and Momma's at the grocery store.

People, behind the security of anonymity and private thoughts, scoff at the idea of a teacher's salary. Quite frankly, it could be worse. I live comfortably (at least attempt to) within our means. But this isn't about that. As much as many folks will sneer at being a teacher, I never hear the end of how lucky we are to have such great vacation dates. Thanksgiving, Christmas (Winter Break if we are being PC, but we're not so...), MLK, Spring Break, Good Friday/Easter, Memorial Day, and Summer Break are the big ones that pretty much all schools get in one form or another. Add in a few local holidays (stock show for country schools and such) and you get a nice little break regularly.

And that my friends, is one of the biggest pay-offs for teachers. No, I don't get to vacation in the absence of school aged children; my holidays mimic theirs. No, I usually have to schedule things around the holidays (major travel, special trips, dental, etc.) and usually encounter even more kids in doing so. But for all that, I'm the luckiest guy out there.

In this holiday alone, I've had the fortune to visit my Grandmother, my brother and his family, my mother and her family, celebrate Christmas with my family (extended as well) over three days, practice my guitar playing, visit with my buddy Tom (guitar and PS3 activities), buy a new pedal (and try it out), take the boys to see Avatar (see the link for a great review), and still have time to prepare for celebrating New Year's Eve.

I'm forever thankful for the career that I have. To disagree with Diddy, it ain't all about the Benjamins; it's about the family. Being around my family, especially the boys, at the same time they are off is truly priceless. They are at an age that they can still see that magic. I'm still cool (but that's fading fast with the older one) and that counts for so much.

Wherever you are, whatever it is you are doing, make it the best. Don't give teachers shit about having holidays off; you probably make more than they do, and they spend more time with your kids than you do during the school year anyways. Enjoy what remains of the holiday.

But as for me, the holidays themselves take a break for kids to go back to school.

Guitars and Powah Chords

Sometimes the universe rains on you. And sometimes...you reign over the universe.

You may have heard, but if not, I received my Christmas gift a bit early. Santa brought ol' Dave a real purty Ibanez acoustic-electric guitar. Shiny black. Cutaway. Fishman electronics.

But while the guitar is nice, the more important aspect of it all, is that during a session of practice one evening (which never happened with the electric), the whole concepts of power chords nearly fried my noodle! I don't know why it didn't hit me sooner, but for whatever reason, it all made sense now.

I'm not going to say that it's an excuse to not learn the chords proper, but it is helping with laying my index finger correctly across the fret and with my overall finger speed. My song book has exponentially opened with this new found epiphany.

A bit over a year into guitar playing and it's going well. Basically moving beyond first position chords and the picking is getting better. A better rhythm player, but nowhere near a soloist. Yet...

Cheers!

Really Cool Art

"Mohawk Tigerwood(astronium robinia)" by Shawn Roberts.

An artist, a mortal god, and class president, Shawn is a high school friend of mine who I recently had the opportunity to reconnect with. In doing so I discovered that he is quite a talented sculptor. Being that his art is quite nice (and beyond my humble means) I invite any who may be in the Austin area this coming weekend to check out the exhibit at the Travis Heights Art Trail. And don't think he's giving me anything for being a shill; I get nothing beyond the opportunity to stare at the artwork you see above.

Good stuff; check it out!

Fitness Week 4 and Def Leppard

So it's the end of Week 4 and I'm not quite happy.

I'm +1 for the week. Not necessarily a bad thing, as I've lost some weigh quite rapidly the past three weeks and I was due for a bit of a bounce back.

One thing I discovered this week was that the additional running to "step up the workout" has wreaked some havoc with my knees. Talking with one of my coaching co-workers, he stated that this was "Normal...It's going to hurt a bit...No pain, no gain!". I call bull-shit. It ain't supposed to hurt like this. So, back to walking I go, with more focus on tempo and pace.

So for all that, I'm not disappointed with where I am. My clothes are fitting better. A lot better...

Got Def Leppard on the brain. Been learning a few ballads and singing along with the bluetooth headphones. Maybe it's a bit kitschy, but this really reminds me of a time when my biggest worries were simply social issues, not the real problems that exist in my life today. When "Love Bites" meant so much to that cute kid with the braces you asked to dance. Damn, those were the days...

Week 3 Fitness

It's the completion of Week 3 and it's been a good week. Weekly total is -4 lbs., for a cumulative of -14 lbs.

Basically, I'm not doing anything too different from the last few weeks. I've been incorporating some light to medium jogging within my route, while changing up the route and distance (within 3/4 of a mile or so).

I'm fortunate to live in a golf neighborhood, so there isn't a lack of location to run. Even better is the presence of numerous hills and an empty parcel of cleared land with about a 1/2 mile of unpaved road laid in.

I've noticed that my clothes are fitting better, cravings for that all-so-dangerous sodas has waned somewhat, and for the most part, so has the desire for most of my typical treats that I so enjoyed.

I won't say that desire isn't present; it always is. It's as if there is this addiction. I will often find myself going into the kitchen pantry or fridge and then catch myself, thinking "You just ate; you aren't hungry. Get some water."

Do I enjoy food still? Sure I do. Food seems to have taken on a slightly different meaning, becoming more along the lines of fuel, as opposed to the hedonistic ambrosia it was previously. I will dip into that former life, but no with some moderation. Family Fun Nights and one day out of the weekend I'll usually enjoy an extra slice, but that comes with the knowledge that the next workout will entail an extra lap or pushing up that long hill a bit harder.

Either way, it's been a good three weeks so far. We'll see how it ends up...

Cheers

Week 2 Fitness and Home-grown Guitars

And so I finish the second week with a total of -3 lbs...cumulative total of -10 lbs. I'm more than fortunate to have a co-worker/teammate barking down my ass about staying on top. I joke with her that my back hurts from carrying the team. Whatever works I guess.

Wifey's been super supportive and that really helps. Little things like "You don't need that" and such just end up not being annoying but motivating reminders that I need early in this stage.

For those keeping up, the Asics kick some serious ass. I can understand how serious runners like them. The offer a more than appropriate amount of cushion, but lack that marshmallow feel that you get with Air Max. Think of them as comfy as adidas with the cushion a big fellow needs from Air Max. Best of both worlds. The bluetooth headphones are pretty awesome as well. Good battery life, stays on when jogging, and so easy to switch songs when needed. Totally eliminates having to have a watch, phone, and MP3 player devices; one device that truly works well.

Many of you readers may have heard about my good friend Tom, my guitar mentor. Well, my son had to make a musical instrument for his next Boy Scout meeting. Instead of a typical cop out drum or shaker, Dyl Man wanted to make a guitar. We initially decided on a cigar box type guitar (Google them), but after arriving at Tom's house this afternoon, we went with a modified Flying-V. A great choice, we just need to string it up. Fret board is a bit wide, but all in all, the tuners work great, and Tom once again proved how awesome of a friend he is.

Thanks Uncle Tom!

Cheers,

The Mert

Congratulations Kim and James

You don't know them, but I just wanted to beat my homeboy in posting about my "other" sister Kim.

She got married recently (you can read about it here at said homeboy's blog). Much kudos to her and the groom, James.

Yesterday, they were blessed with the birth of a baby girl.

Best wishes on a speedy recovery, Kim. I'm sure you'll be a great mom. You had a great role model growing up.

New Regimen and Walking Fuel

So, there's this contest going on at work. It's a team based fitness challenge to encourage better living and exercise. I'm taking part and as a heavy weight, I'm feeling a bit of pressure, not to say that much of that put there by me.

So why the post? Well, it's one of those things that if you write it down, you commit to it. And that's why I'm here.

Wifey's been supportive in helping, knowing that this will only help my overall health. To better motivate myself, I've made the purchase of some headphones. Bluetooth headphones. Nothing too fancy, some LG's that were on sale at Buy.com. A nice deal, they've been out for a while and have decent reviews. I've been wanting some BT headphones for a while, since my last phone, and since I've gotten this new Samsung Impression and started this exercise regimen, I hope this will be an added incentive to just keep things going.

Little bit at a time. Oh, and for posterity sakes, this is Week 1.

Cheers!

Blues for the Weekend

So I don't have too much I want to share right now, but I did want to get this up.

Had the opportunity to take the family to my friend Tom's house and share in his wife's birthday. Tom had told me that his brother would be there and the possibility of a jam was evident. Fortunately, I've got the memory to record and took advantage.

Nice bit o' blues here. I do apologize for the overall graininess, but the sound is pretty decent.

Thanks for sharing Tom & Hank.

Cheers!

Top 5: Road Trip Worth Texas Foods

What would you drive a day for? What food would entice you so much that you'd spend nearly $200 in gas to get? Well, that's what this is about.

[Note: While usually this article is a Top 8, the subjective nature of this article limits it to a simpler 5.]

Honorable Mention: Water Street Oyster Bar, Corpus Christi. Yeah, this place is perhaps the most over-rated on this list. Why is it still present? The seafood, when it's on, is that good. Had some killer mahi mahi a few years ago. The decor is quite nice as well.

5. Texas Barbecue, Small-town, Texas - That's right, you can only find this in small towns. Unless you crash some good ol' boys 'cue on the weekend. The pit is on the side or out back, cords of wood stacked up and visible, and the old ladies behind the counter don't give a shit about your fancy suit or iPhone. Best joint ever? Mount Zion in Huntsville, Texas. All you can eat lunch and service that will leave a smile tattooed on your face. And Dad, it ain't pulled, so you can order with confidence.

4. Mata's Cafe, Florsville, Texas - It's the smallest of Mexican food joints, but I've never left there feeling hungry or dissatisfied. Having them on speed dial is a testament to the tastiness of their food. While this isn't the only Mexican joint in town (there are four within two blocks of this place, a total of eight just within city limits), they offer great service and tasty food (namely, the food is awesome, the tortillas hot and tender, the tea cool, sweat and flavorful, and quick and personable service). But, what anyone has to understand is that the small hovel-looking Mexican joints are perhaps the best ones. Following my religious needs, if the Mexican joint ain't got a visible picture of Mary, you need to keep looking. If you have to ask, then you wouldn't understand. Sorry, that's how it is.

3. Blue Bell Ice Cream, Brenham, Texas - A lot of folks really go for Ben & Jerry's. I will admit they do it up really nice. Folks down here though, we are bred on that metallic rimmed container holding the frozen loveliness. The slogan is/was "We eat all we can, and sell the rest." It's not just a slogan; it's the real deal. Growing up in high school, we'd play cards and with the winnings buy ice cream for $.25 a pop; easy way to impress that cute girl (unless you lost). To this day, "We serve Blue Bell Ice Cream" always wins out. HEB's Creamy Creations is simply a distance second.

2. What-A-Burger, Corpus Christi, Texas - While you can find this chain in a great many towns across our nice state, it all started in the little town on the coast. The burgers are made the old fashioned fast food way, and served in pretty much the same fashion. A lot of small Mom & Pop joints do the same thing, perhaps a bit cheaper. Why here at #2? Because I can get Mom & Pop's goodness in over 700 locations across the southern United States.

1. Chicken fried steak, Non major chain, Texas - Read the previous article about my dad. It's just that good. Best ever? Growing up, it was K-Bob's in Brenham, Texas (no longer there). Currently, it's a tie between two local joints, but there's a plenty out there.

Well, that concludes the top. You probably have something to say about it. I welcome it.

Cheers,

Mert

20 Hours for CFS

What makes for road trip worthy food? How far would you drive?

A good time and all, I really enjoyed having my dad down for a few days. He got to finally meet his second grandson and reestablish with his first grandson and his son and daughter-in-law. Got to meet stepmom; she's a lovely person. Both got to see how much of a baller I am in this one-horse town. The constant "Hello"s coming from the throngs of young people seem to impress him (or annoy him and he just played it off).

To anyone who had to leave Texas, you can perhaps understand this. One of the most important details my dad really wanted to address on his road trip was allowing his new wife to taste Chicken Fried Steak.

Homesick Texan has the quote stating "Only a rank degenerate would drive 1,500 miles across Texas without eating a chicken-fried steak." —Larry McMurtry". Mr. McMurty had it right, and my dad knew it as well. No, we are not talking about breaded steak, not fried round steaks, but chicken fried steaks. Crispy batter that is nearly twice the size of the actual tenderized steak, cream gravy just makes everything else taste that much better dripping off the sides of the oversized crisped batter, and Texas toast that is...well, toasted in Texas.

After a few plans and subsequent changes, we chose a local joint in town, just within walking distance of our festival. The menu offered just the thing; the clincher was the final detail written verbatim: "IT'S REALLY BIG!" That was all it took. Twenty minutes later, my dad and his wife that golden nugget of deep fried goodness. The first thing my dad did after inhaling its aromatic taunts was to take a picture to immortalize the moment. I felt as if I was hosting the stereotypical Asian couple often portrayed in those stupid 80's flicks. Funniest moment was perhaps the waitress; she truly doubted that this couple drove twenty hours just for some chicken fried steak. Ah, the lack of faith among the unitiated and untested. Remember that next time you leave Texas (or your home state.)

Top 8: Songs for Guitar Learners

Let's make this quite clear: To avoid a long title, I deliberately left off "That I can or can almost play".

Anyone who's been following me the last year or so knows that I'm learning guitar. I've been fortunate to start off with a really nice guitar. Picked up a better than decent amp at Christmas time, and have since picked up some pedals, cords and variety of picks and strings.

In that time, I've mastered the G-C-D, A-D-E and a few in-between. The barre chords have slowly come around in the last few months. That's probably been key for me in really opening up the songbook. Since I haven't written in a while (and the current story is still kicking around in the ol' noggin), I figured I could examine the songs that I play and really figure out what does it for me.

This list is comprised of songs that I do play or have really really almost figured out. Almost...

Honorable Mention: Thunderstruck by AC/DC: Man, do I love this song. The hardest part beyond the solo is probably the intro. Angus does a great job with it; I've yet to really nail the steady tempo of it. It'd be higher, but I just can't play it. Yet...

HM 2: Any Way You Want It by Journey: You gotta have some Journey in the repertoire, and this is a great one. I don't have the solo, but the little riff isn't too bad, and a decent singer will make you sound like a bad ass. Love it.

8. Then by Brad Paisley: Every singer needs to have a song to make those tender hearted ladies swoon. Paisley got it right with this one. Best line? "Taking 45 minutes to kiss good night..."

7. Undone (The Sweater Song) by Weezer: I really wish I could play the intro to My Name is Jonas, but short of that, I can really get down to most of this song (especially now Iv'e got the pedal). Took a bit of time get down the fret work on the beginning part, considering my fat ass fingers.

6. Wonderful Tonight by Cream/Clapton: Not a hard song, but the first one where I actually learned the little riff at the beginning. Forced me to learn tabs after I learned chords. The way it should be, at least in my opinion...

5.Take It Easy by The Eagles: Perhaps the easiest of all these songs (even with the five or so chords), a great beginner song to make you sound really good. That, and I really like the Eagles.

4. Come on Get Higher by Matt Nathanson: A bit of an Indie-ish artist, but a really great song. The song is a not quite subtle metaphor for intercourse, and well, it's just that good. Not porno dirty by any means; just good adult fun.

3. Wanna Make a Memory by Bon Jovi: Gotta admit, I really like that group from Jersey. They come up with some really nice ballads and this is no different. The song has just enough edge to really spice up what some may consider a boring song. The palm muting really works in the beginning if you lack a bass.

2. Last Kiss by The Cavaliers/Pearl Jam: I guess the second song I learned, I've really come to respect the guitarist/singer combo. It's tough. My first ever public performance was this song in front of about 850 middle school students. Not easy, but I did it and got a nice ovation.

1. Squeeze Box by The Who: First song I really learned to play entirely. I play the rhythm part, so no solo from me, but it's still a great song. My son and I actually jam out together, and he plays the solo on bass. That and double entendres make this song top tune.

So that's my list as of this day. Disagree? Feel free to post a comment. Or not.

Cheers,

Mert

Guitar Pedals, School and Rain

It's a whirling dirvish of a few weeks, but I need to write. Something. Okay, let's go!

So I made the delve into guitars even more so by procuring a few neccesary options, namely some

BOSS effects pedals. I ended up with a great deal on eBay for the BOSS DS-2, a switchable pedal with two modes: Overdrive and Turbo Overdrive. Needless to say, I needed a switch.

After buying all the parts to build (at least in theory) a custom footswitch (a DPDT latching one at that!), I looked at the receipt and realized I spent more than an actual nice one would have cost retail. The lady behind the counter couldn't help but stare as I returned the items not 25 minutes later. Oh well. Gaze upon my newly acquired...um...stuff. Yeah...

School has been in effect now for three wonderful weeks. This time of year is always interesting, as it takes a bit of time to really learn about the kids and begin to truly build the rapport. I'm amazed as it seems that I've learned names a bit faster than usual, but that may just be me. I've dived head first into a great many of my new duties, especially the ESL role I've undertaken. Perhaps one thing that really stands out this year is my missing neighbor. Marilyn, my former mentor and neighbor for the last six years, took a well earned retirement. The entire department misses her positive attitude and willing to go the distance for her students. I simply miss a great neighbor who was too good to me. Cheers to you Marilyn; enjoy that cold one wherever you order it from.

Anyone living in ATX or south knows that a bit o' rain is a good thing, and a whole lot of little bitty rain is a great thing. We've truly been blessed the last few days with some of that nice precipitation, so I'll leave you with some Eddie Rabbit. Yeah, that's his name. Good stuff really...especially sans lightning, but that's another story...

New Shoes and Lightning

So, lightning struck (multiple times at that) and my router is toast...again. My PC's power supply is shot and I get to drop close to a bill to replace all this.

So, for all that, invest in a GOOD surge protector. Better yet, according to my brother, but the bad ass uninterrupted power supply and sleep peacefully. I'll have to get back to you on how the PSU swap goes; I expect it to be complicated and simple at the same time. Joy.

The good news? My shoes came in! I ordered them through Zappo's, an online shoe store I've known about for some years now. The wife got some flats and I got...

Yes, I bought the ones with the Highway to Hell cover. Bon Scott, horns and all. The soles kick ass as well. Dyl is extremely jealous. No one in town has these yet, and well, that's just awesome! For all the bullshit going on with my electronic world, the simple Chucks help the healing.

Now, let there be rock...

Unrequited, VI

He could feel himself floating, the road flowing beneath him.

Time seemed to stand still.

Birds paused mid-flight. Traffic stopped. Silence filled the realm.

Leila was saying something, but the view was too beautiful to be ruined with speech.

Declan remembered that last ride he and Moira took down this road.

They ate some Chinese that night, and Moira begged to take a ride. No helmet, she begged. I want to feel the wind in my hair, she purred. Declan didn't need a second opinion. The warm air embraced their bodies as they sped down the road, making bike weave through the various beaters and high end Beemers. The two bodies shifted together, a carnal waltz making the ride that much more fulfilling.

As per their usual cat-and-mouse game of lust, Moira liked to nibble on his ear as Declan went through the gears. She giggled when he would miss a shift, then would squeeze him closer almost apologetically.

The last thing he saw was gentle waters of the river.

Unrequited, V

The drive down 290 went quickly, blending into I-35 without much pause.

The song blared in his helmet, wailing guitars, and the vocals detailing all the troubled him now.

"...Soft lips are open, knuckles are pale..." as Declan shifted, hit the throttle, and the engine whined with anticipation.

Immediately, his phone began to ring. Damn, though Declan, she's gonna stop me.

"Yes?"

"Dec, what are you doing?"

"C'mon...you wanted to go for a ride, didn't you?"

"Yeah, but you're going like 85 right now! Slow down!"

"Sorry...you know what today is right?" And with that, he hung up on here on the song resumed.

"...Feels like you're dying...You're dying...You...Your sex is like fire..."

The marker would soon be within sight.

Unrequited, IV

The lo mein was good, but the moo shu was better. He drained the hot and sour soup from the styrofoam container, then found Leila staring at him.

"C'mon...Let's go for a ride. You need to get out for a bit and..."

"No, Leila, I can't. I just...", interrupted Declan.

"Just what? Sit here and rot? It's been a year, Dec. It wasn't anyone's fault. Everyone has moved on. Toshi, James, Juan...even Kim. You keep wanting to blame yourself, but..."

"But what?" retorted Declan. He stared at Leila. He didn't want to pick a fight, but sometimes it was just easier.

"Okay, let's go."

"What?" exclaimed Leila.

"Now, on the bikes" teased Declan. I hope this works, he quickly planned through his mind.

The whine of the Ducati beconed Leila, and the resulting burnout only hinted at the burn that was to come.

Life Interruptus

One of my favorite lines from a particular artist goes like this:

With an iron-clad fist, I wake up and French kiss each morning...

I'd like to think that I live this way, but I probably don't much of the time. I have been working to embrace certain things more, shifting my priorities to where they should be.

Why the confessional? Well, I guess I feel guilty to a few of you readers (all eight of you) that I haven't continued my story. In all honesty, my fairly new PC is on the fritz right now and I'm on the phone talking, going into my third hour with the tech support.

So, the story is hopefully just a few days away from continuing. In the meantime, help me out here. What do you think about Declan, Moira, and Leila? Opinions?

Basically, offer your take on what's there. Or not. Either way, hopefully, I can get the "Unrequited" train back on track and rolling in a few.

Thanks for coming by and we'll be seeing you soon.

Unrequited, III

The whine of a Ducati is unmistakeable. Declan lived is a nice little neighborhood in South Austin, but what was perhaps the nicest was all the little curves and undulating hills here and there. He didn't condone reckless driving, but the course to his house from pretty much anything more than a quarter mile away was a thrilling drive.

The 696 shifted, increasing intensity. Leila was almost there, with the Chinese. His stomach growled in anticipation.

He sat next to the window, antipating Leila's route. If you looked to the west, you could see, through a patch in the limbs, the road that could lead you to Declan's house. He saw the blur of red flash through, followed by the slight pause of noise, then its eager return.

Declan's eyes were drawn to a photograph on his grandmother's antique shelf. In it, you could see Declan and Leila, wearing graduation gowns sitting astride matching red Ducati 696's. A present for our four years of hard work, Leila justified. Declan didn't need much justification; he remembered his Japanese classmates bragging about their brothers and sisters rides. The loud and gaudy paint jobs on the motorcycles always caught his eyes. Declan can always remember the day that Ren, Takumi's older brother, offered him a ride on his Suzuki Hayabusa. Money be damned, Declan didn't care that this dragon with two wheels was either stolen or paid with illicit money. The 500 horsepower beast catpured Declan into the realm of two-wheeled freedom.

Before he could realize it, Declan's typical stoicism had broken into the half-smile of old. The whine of the motorcycle faded into the whiteness of background noise, until it's abrupt absence startled Declan; Leila was here.

Unrequited, II

The flashing cursor blindly urged him to type something, but nothing was coming to Declan. At least, nothing that the recipient would understand.

He shook his head absently, picked up the iPhone and quickly responded to Leila:

Bring Chinese tonight. Lo Mein, not Chow. XXOO.

Any bystander would think that Declan was taking to his girlfriend, but Leila was a very lovely and faithful girl friend. You guys are...Pluto-nomic, is what Aunt Caitlin would say. Pretty much everyone got the gist.

As he hit send, Declan's finger brushed up against the scar along his thumb. He set the phone down and traced the scar, following it down to nearly his elbow. Declan lost count after the the cast came off how many times people queried about it. The running joke was a cat did this to him. It wasn't a lie; it was a bitter truth that Declan could not forget.

He could feel the wind whipping through his reddish locks, the arms wrapped around him, the warmth of another pressed upon his cheek, a whisper...

The keyboard suddenly leapt simultaneously along with the vintage wooden chair. It's antique hinges and springs creaked in protest, the seat swiveling round and round, no longer hindered by a seated person.

Unrequited

We accept the love we think we deserve.

Declan couldn't comprehend it for a moment. For much of his life, he had been alone. Declan's parents died in the infamous Trade Center attacks, when the second tower collapsed. He left New York to live with his next of kin in what seemed like a backwoods cesspool called Austin.

Now that he'd graduated, his plans weren't quite as clear. Declan forgot for the moment that things really were never that clear. The words remained constantly burned on the monitor as he finished up a few internet postings.

He felt the buzz in his pocket. Declan tugged out the iPhone and gave it a quick tap. Moira again, thought Declan. He loved her like a sister, because that's pretty much who she was. She lived on the ranch across the road from Uncle Finn and Aunt Caitlin. They'd taken many a rides on horseback on those late summer evenings. Declan even helped her father with hauling hay as it was. Moira was the first friendly face that he connected with, but that quickly evolved into something more.

Movie was good, dinner sucked. TTYL! I<3u

But for now, those words on the screen brought back the image of Leila. The vacuum once again clenched its iron fists around his heart.

Piece of 80's: Good-bye Mike

Okay, I'm not going to talk about Michael Jackson's death beyond the tragedy that left three kids without a father.

Instead, as many of you readers know, I did much of my youthful growing in the 80's and as such, have this affinity towards all things 80's.

Michael Jackson played a huge part of that. His music and dance moves were popular and emulated, then mocked and ridiculed, but it was always present. I even remember buying my last Michael Jackson song ("You Are Not Alone" cassette single, it was that long ago...) and listening to it on the drive home along I-45.

He did have an affect on me. For all the controversy that surrounds Michael in the last fifteen years, I choose instead to remember the 80's Michael, big nose and all.

I cribbed this from Guitar Collecting, a lovely website about guitars. This was on YouTube, but I think you get the gist: a nice song played by a great young guitarist.

Cheers to you Michael Jackson, circa 1982.

Writer's Block

Anyone who's done any writing knows the feeling. That overused cliche when you're in high school and you are looking for that reason to sit around and not write? Well, here I am. Perhaps I've just got too much stimulus and can't focus on any one thing for longer than a few minutes,but that's just where it is.

So for being a loyal fan and still checking in, I present you with....

Random Facts!

1. Michael Jackson died. So did Farrah Fawcett. So did Billy Mays. So did someone's Grandma, Granpa, cousin, uncle, aunt, sister, etc. People die. It's tragic, but let's remember the context.
2. I took my son to the putting green yesterday and we even hit a few balls. First time since April. Nice without pressure.
3. Houston Astros is still my favorite MLB team. Regarless of thier current standing.
4. Steve and Bobby Forrest are nice guys.
5. Breakfast tacos with your brother and sister-in-law is so underrated.
6. Lunch with your sister and brother-in-law is also underrated.
7. Washing dishes is so overrated.
8. I don't have an excuse to go watch Transformer: Revenge of the Fallen yet...
9. Potty training is...well...potty training.
10. There will be fireworks at Sea World.

Hopefully, more in a day or two. Something a bit better...

Cheers.

Simply the Best

Cue the intro, boys...

Today is Father's Day, at least here in the States it is. For that, we tend to grill our choice of cuts outside, drink a few and shoot out texts/emails/etc. to our father figures.

I'm sure that amidst all the celebrations, there are some happy ones and probably some not quite so happy ones. For whatever reason, I hope that everyone has a day as awesome as mine; better yet, have one even more awesome.

Sometimes, we are forced to take things a bit slower. That happened today to me, at least. And for that, I am thankful. I thank all the powers that be for throwing in my face all the wonders that exist in my life, all the little things that make being here now worth the effort. As the day was winding down, we loaded up the SUV and prepared to depart. Somehow, the light just caught my wife's hair and she as looking towards me. For a brief moment that time decided to put in super slow-mo, the music began to play in the background, the planets aligned and the stars reigned supreme, the velvet ropes parted and I was allowed a glimpse of how wonderful life truly is. It is too easy to get sucked into the depths of negativity (not that the occasional bitching isn't healthy).

So where ever you may be, whatever might be going on in your life, make sure to simply take a moment (two if you really want to live!) and give thanks that you are here, send a wish out to your loved ones, and let Tina express herself in the best way possible.

Final Quote: "Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated." - Confucius

By Any Means Necessary...

Malcom X had the right words, but perhaps he and I are seeing things differently.

I just got done reading an interesting article about a home run in softball called back for a truly heinous reason. Of course, anyone who reads Rick Reilly knows his tone and I really enjoy his articles. But I digress.

At what point do we does winning come at the cost of setting aside our values? When does being right mean more than doing right? Ahh, the confusions of life...

Why this and why now?, you may be asking. Reading the article and having a couple of things happen in a day can do strange things to a person. No, nothing that life altering mind you, but simply the opportunity to really reflect and think about the decisions that a person makes.

I doubt anyone truly enjoys being wrong, nor does anyone truly love the joys of losing. Sometimes that as mundane as an argument with your poker buddy. Sometimes its as large as altering the outcome of a major game. Whatever the seeming scope and breadth of the situation, either have both a correct and a right outcome, which may be the same or not. In the case of the called back homer, the Busch-League call was correct (to a certain extent, but read the article for that) but wrong.

So if you get into an argument like I did today, don't be a jerk about it. Sure, you may be right, but what are you going to win? Sometimes it's just better to accept the situation and shrug, smile, and say okay. Of course, my other mom Deby would just smile her smile and know that she was right.

So Malcom wasn't referring quite to the same as me, but let's imagine if everyone to this train of thought to being good people.

And Renee would simply say "I told you so."

Friday Fun: BeFunky.com

Life is way to short to just work and sleep, and the occaision romp in the proverbial hay, so...

If you are looking for a creative way to waste a bit of time, check out BeFunky. Simple, easy to use interface, and easily saved to various sources. You can even upload from existing photo web accounts (think Picassa, photobucket, or Flikr; these are just a few).

You can even upload your finished product onto your social networking site.

Fun fun fun!

Final Quote: Look at the picture above, it's worth at least 1000.

Teacher's Summer: Day 13

Ah, the joys of summer. For all of you hard working folks that don't have summers off, I get to join you on certain days.

As I missed my usual Wednesday entry, I thought about what I did the last few days. See, I was not stuck, but attended this really cool workshop in San Antonio about teaching strategies for struggling readers (this works just as well for regular readers). Obviously I learned so much that I wanted to share, so here we go...

If I didn't scare you off, thanks for staying. The point is that even though most teachers have the summer off, we still have work to do. Obviously this is done in a different capacity. I'll be attending almost two weeks' worth of training through the summer (three down!). I'll be working on various lesson plans, trying to incorporate the trainings and what I've learned.

And I'll be enjoying my summer as best as possible. What else have I done?

I've been playing guitar. Those of you long time readers (yeah Kris and Nelson!) know that I've been playing close to eight months now, and barre chords are coming along nicely. Starting to incorporate more picking (really depending on tablature right now) into the whole chord work. Dylan's bass playing is really coming along. He jests about giving lessons to some neighborhood kids, but he's just teaching them some basic stuff. Dyl does know how to play along to four or five songs, all the while singing. Life is a musical wonderland!

That's about it. I've started my short story and with it, I've kept my focus and written my minimal most days (I am on pace as I wrote more on certain days, but sometimes I'm away from the computer). Hopefully, I can get some valuable feedback from a few folks next month (Kris and Ice Pick, I'm thinking about you guys...).

That's about it for now. Want to say something? Go ahead, I'm too tired to complain. I still got to work out and I am going to watch this movie, The Shooter. Hopefully it's pretty decent.

Final Quote: "Ain't no cure for the summertime blues." - Eddie Cochran

Wedding Quarters

"Do you?"

"Do you?"

"I now prounounce you..."

I'm sure that you can predict the rest of that sentence. It was an interesting weekend for me, that's for sure. While I did get to see a movie (see Kris's post about that here), it's more about the entire reason for my trip that I write.

A wedding. The joining of two people who deign to be together until the very end. For all that, it's funny how things work out.

I really won't bore with you details. This is more about me and a few select people remembering the time that we shared. If you feel lost, you may want to skip the rest. If you want to smile at the possiblities and still be lost, then keep on reading.

Top 8 Memorable Moments from the 6-15-09 Wedding:

Honorable Mention: Continously hearing farting noises (mouth generated)

8. Instructions on making scrambled eggs

7. Being corrected on how to speak to the drive-thru teller

6. Holding and comparing play swords that are sharp enough to cut your head off

5. Lenghty conversation about writing

4. Terminator Salvation with a good friend

3. Enchiladas con salsa verde

2. One dollar bill = 3 quarters

1. Marriage Union

What did you expect? Anyway, I didn't say the entire list was going to be super good stuff. I like to keep it real.

Final Quote: "An ideal wife is any woman that has an ideal husband." - Booth Tarkington

Writing Quickie

Here's an idea. If you continue to read this, then you are *cough* obligated *cough* to complete the exercise.

This weekend, after talking to my buddy Kris about a few things, I figured maybe we could get something a bit more interactive. Finish the sentence. However, whichever. Finish it.

EDIT: If you get a chance, vote on the poll. As always, comments are welcome.

While I was hoping to win the $20 million dollars, I only won $1,000; I now plan to _______ .

Final Quote: "If you want to feel rich, just count the things you have that money can't buy." - Proverb

Playing the Shill: AndreaMosaic

Okay, I'll do my part in the name of freeware.

Anyone who knows my knows that I love video and photography. I've never had fancy equipment until I bought my camcorder this year.

I digress.

It hit me today and I did a quick search and came across a how-to of sorts for photomosaics. This how-to suggested a few, and I clicked on the first one: AndreaMosaic.

Basically, I'm still learning the software, but anyone on my facebook saw my photo I posted. It's quite easy to get going, but probably takes a bit of practice to really master the finer points.

It's apparently named after an Andrea, but I don't know yet who she is. She simply asks that end users give her the props. There is a more bells & whistles version, the Professional, but I went with the basic.

To Andrea, thanks for what is thus far a great product. My son loves his picture (so does Mommy!).

Again, if you are considering doing something with that huge collection of digital prints on the hard drive, this is a great idea and a possible gift for Dad in the next few weeks.

Cheers!

Final Quote: "Photography is the beauty of life, captured. " - Tara Chisholm

Get It While It's Hot!

A great many of you readers are writers, and do so with great success.

Unfortunately for me, I've not quite had the success I'd hope to have when I was finishing college. I never really dreamt of going into a full fledged writing career. Sure, sports writer would be pretty cool, but I don't think I'd like my life dictated by a deep playoff run. Fiction has always held a grasp on me, but finding my voice and style has taken some time.

As I write this, I'm really hit with a decent idea that I think I can run with. I doubt that I'll do anything public with it until it's finished (and been proofed by at least three trusted individuals; you know who you are).

Why this post? Well, as I was telling my friend last week of some ideas that came and went, he simply pointed out: You got to strike when the fire is hot.

He was right. So, in essence, this is me putting my goal on paper. I will attempt to complete this short story by...oh crap. Do I really have to put a date up? Let's just say that I'll work on it everyday for the next four weeks. Goal is to write at least 100 words daily, if not more.

Wish me luck.

Final Quote: So often is the virgin sheet of paper more real than what one has to say, and so often one regrets having marred it. ~Harold Acton, Memoirs of an Aesthete, 1948

Higher Standard Follow Up: No Crying in Baseball

One of my dear friends asked the question after reading my last post: What do you think about youth sports that don't declare a winner, where everyone win?

After strong consideration, I think that's not quite realistic. Part of the fun that comes with sports is competition. Compeititon is described, among other things, as "a contest between rivals". This, in essence, states that there will be one winner and one loser. Loser is so derogatory here; it simply states that you were not the victorious one.

Why is this better? Kids don't like defeat as much as adults. Losing hurts. You try your best but that weird kid playing left wasn't paying attention and the other team scored two runs as a result. Not your fault right? Team sports should teach teamwork (and all that entails, such as comeradie) that often is difficult to reproduce in other places. Sports can take you through a plethora of emotions. Happy ones that come from making a good play and helping to win the game. Sad ones that come from striking out to losing a close battle.

Is there a place for scoreless games? Sure, let's save that for the beginning leagues. The 5- and 6-year olds that are just starting out. It's more about learning the game there. As the kids grow, so should the expectations. The score won't kill a kid. And hopefully the parent is supportive in this endeavor.

Victory isn't always achieved by having the highest score. The high score only shows a few things, but often times, the most important score won't show up until years later.

Final Quote: "I used to care more about the score than I do now." - Darrell Royal

A Higher Standard

So my son's team played in the season ending tournament, and did quite well. While it didn't matter that we finished second, what did matter was the behavior of a few adults.

Anyone who has attended a Little League game (or pretty much any other youth sports activity) will witness kids playing and competing. You'll see young stars play a level above many of their team mates, and you will also see a great many beginners make mistakes. That's all part of youth sports. What grinds at me is the adults that ruin the party.

When is it ever appropriate to use profanity around 7 or 8 year olds? It it okay to throw your hat when a play goes awry? How about yelling (not loudly coaching mind you...) at a player? Here's one: the team isn't quite performing as well as they should, so you call the boys for a practice one weekend and force them to wear pink shorts, or hats or shirts for the duration of the practice. Don't feel like the rules are working in your favor? Go chew out some of the volunteers and criticize their volunteered time and efforts.

Obviously, I've got my opinions. Notice, I never pointed out parents. Because they, along with coaches, are equally invovled and should maintain that high standard. The youth that particiapte, along with the newly involved that you get each season, see these antics (because they stand out a lot more than the positive encouragement that is everpresent) and get the idea that it's acceptable.

It's not folks. I'm sure that some may say that wearing a bit of pink won't kill you, but I fail to see the point in boys wearing pink as a punishment. Yelling [insert sarcasm] always makes someone want to work harder.

But what do I know right? I've only got experience volunteering with YMCA, Special Olympics, Spurs League, and Little League, combined with years as a high school coach. I'm not going to say that my way is the ONLY right way, but there are definitely wrong ways out there.

Go ahead and make a comment. I promise only positive encouragement.

Final Quote: "All keep an open mind and a compassionate heart." - Phil Jackson

Interesting Question #4: What are your summer plans?

Ahh, the hot blazing sun kisses us with a warmth that burns my skin. Unyeilding humidity in South Texas that laughs when you say It'll be cooler this afternoon. And the lack of work duties for a few months.

Such is the life of a teacher. Fortunate for me. Now I'm sure that many of you aren't teachers and probably have to work through summers. I've been there, done that (I hate the prospect of ever working retail EVER again). And as I've been busy this past week, I've got to get caught up with this here blog, so here's this week's question:

What are your plans this summer?

Short and sweet. I'm not gonna give you verbatim every single smidgen of detail. Quite frankly, if you are still reading, then I'm doing good. Instead, I'll just list off a few items for interesting reading's sake and hopefully, you can reciprocate.

1. Sea World - Bought season passse, so we WILL get our money's worth, or die trying.
2. Guitar Lessons - The boy earned his guitar. The boy will learn songs.
3. Astros - Working on scoring tickets, this is a definite maybe.
4. NASA - Day camp later this summer.
5. ATX & H-Town - Family and Friends.
6. FPS - Training in Austin that ends up being a fun trip.

Enough about me. What are your plans? Share and share alike.

As usual, comments are always appreciated.

Final Quote: "School's out for the summer!" - Alice Cooper

My Warm Fuzzy Blanket

I watched Body of Lies a few months ago, and I remember thinking ,Wow, what a good movie.

EDIT: For those that haven't seen it yet, check it out.  While it does have many political references and insinuations, it's a ficticious tale based upon occurences in the Middle East.  Terrorism, suicide bombings, beheadings (or the threat of them), and helping the "right side" are all elements within the film.  This is juxtaposed with the politics of fighting a war while maintaining the status quo, which often times conflicts with the effectiveness of fighting to begin with.

As I perused the news this morning,  I came across this bit of news.  Quite sad it seems.

I know that living where I do, I have certain priveliges and liberties that other countries dream of. Perhaps the one overlooked is that feeling of security.  That superficial and tranparent security blanket, security that we feel we have, but often times, fail to acknowledge how quickly it can be taken away.  

I laughed in the movie when Di Caprio's character said to go ahead and shoot him, he didn't wan't his head cut off.  But the reality is that in parts of the world, this does happen.  Regularly at least. As Memorial Day came and went this past Monday, I'm thankful for the security that we do have. Because no matter what, it can  be worse.

Thank a soldier.  Thank a policeman.  But give thanks either way.

Closing Quote:  "Liberty: One of Imagination's most precious possessions."  Ambrose Bierce, The Devil's Dictionary

Interesting Question #3: Why do you game?

I've been playing video games since 1983 or so.  I remember my dad buying the Magnavox Odyssey² and bringing it home.  Since then, I've gone through numerous video game systems and such. 

And that leads us to this week's question:  Why do you game?

Is it the need to conquer that level?  Do you enjoy the typical mindless platformer?  Perhaps you are part of a clan and enjoy the comeraderie? 

There's no one reason why a person should play games.  A plethora of valid reasons exists, along with those not so valid reasons.

For me, it's about getting away for a brief moment.  It's not too terribly often I play for more than an hour at a time; I can't afford to during the school year.  Summer time, it's a bit of a different story, but I still have to set an example for my boys.  

In any case, I play games that offer a challenge (any FPS right now...), has music that I enjoy (Rock Band 2!!), and makes a person think (ever played echochrome or Flower?). 

So what drives you to get your digital fix?  Comments, as always, are welcome. And don't forget to vote on the poll!

Closing quote: "Video games are bad for you? That's what they said about rock and roll." - Shigeru Miyamoto

Guilty Pleasures: Star Wars

Yes, it's true.  I love me some Star Wars  But then, I grew up in that era where the original trilogy was filled with magic, where you would reach out with your hand to pull something with the Force, and lightsabers were the end all to any battle.

I was reminded of my love for Stars Wars last night when I was watching Fanboys.  If you haven't seen it (and you are a fan of the Star Wars), then see if you would pass the test given in the movie (you'll see it).

I can't say I'm a hard-core fan; I've never dressed up and gone out in costume beyond Halloween.  I don't own any props.  I only have two unopened toy figures.  My son has some of the Lego toys; I've got a dozen or so books.  But I still really enjoy the whole Star Wars universe, how the characters have developed and interplay with each other.

It's not for everyone, that's for sure.  But, again, that's why it's a guilty pleasure.

P.S. - While I didn't grow up a Trekkie, I can't say I have any animosity towards Star Trek fans.  I love the new movie and Shatner is one of my fav actors.

Closing Quote: “The Dark Side of the Force is the pathway to many abilities some consider to be… Unnatural.”

Intersting Question#2: Why do you do the Blog?

I love window shopping.  Ever since I can remember, I loved walking around store, malls and such and simply previewing the possibilities for the next time gifts might be exchanged.  

My sister and I had this simple game we used to play: Pick.  We would take a good catalogue (Christmas/Winter catalogues were the best as they had the largest assortment of toys).  We would flip the pages, taking turns on picking what we considered to be the best on each page.  Sometimes, especially if you had first pick, you'd take something the other wanted just to be antagonistic.

Why did we do it?  Well, maybe because we felt like we just didn't quite have that much.  More than anything, it was cheap and entertaining fun.  We enjoyed it.

That leads us up to this week's Interesting Question:  Why do you do the Blog?  And, to be honest, it doesn't necessarly pertain to just this one.  Why do you write?  Why do you visit the blogs that you do?

Answers will vary based upon the person, but I'll go ahead and give you mine.  I write because deep down inside lurks a wannabe writer, a poseur of prose if you will.  I've written, in my humble opinion, very little of great literary value, but....I digress.  I also enjoy reading other blogs namely because they share similar interests.  Guitarz is a great one for interesting guitars and PostSecret is one that deals with real life.  They offer me a fill of things I am simply into.

So what's your reason?  Be it simple or more complex than than a typical Home Owner's Association's by-laws, share your reason.

Final Quote: "We read to know that we are not alone." - C.S. Lewis

Missed my Deadline!

I've been trying to maintain some sort of regularity on this writing thing, but sometimes life gets in the way.

Since Sunday, I've played Nerf Dart Tag (or Wars) with the boy, had numerous tickle-fests with the other boy, ridden bikes with the entire family (with other boy in tow), rocked out on guitar and on Rock Band, read half of a recommended book (The Road is quite bleak, Kris...), discussed networking in depth along with the state of the planet, spend nearly half a day (total time-wise) editing a truly bad-assed video for work (guitars, teased hair, and classic rock is about all i can say right now) and even sitting down with the wife for a nice quaint dinner (with the kids watch TV and eating french fries).

Honestly, I don't feel too guilty now that I look over the reasons why I haven't written.  This is exactly why I decided to step down as the head golf coach.  My family is a priority and I didn't uphold that truth for too long.

So here's the post.  Nothing fancy at all.  In fact, you'd be lucky to get any more hyperlinks, but I'm feeling kinda lazy right now.  I will say this: No matter where you are, no matter what you are doing, take the time to simply appreciate the moment.  It truly is fleeting.

Best of it all, it doesn't meant that bad things won't happen; they will.  Take it all in stride and learn to appreciate those moments, as they impress upon us even more to inhale all our better moments.

Okay, here's a quick plug for one of my fav bands, REM.  Enjoy!

R.E.M. - New Music - More Music Videos

Final Quote: "...That's sugarcane that tasted good/that's what you are, that's what you could/c'mon c'mon no one can see you cry..." - REM

Interesting Question #1: Clothing Brands

I am always amazed where my lovely muse may strike...

If you've done any facebooking, you know about the various applications that come up.  And with that, comes hopefully a regular Sunday light writing:  Interesting Questions.  No brain busters, nothing that you're gonna regret in the morning (not those kind of questions!), but something simple and hopefully will inspire you to just consider the small things that make up our wonderful and complicated lives.

So, I get this update that says "Your Pick5 of the Day:..." and it lists a few lists that I could generate.  I click on the one that says "Favourite Clothing Brand" (guilty pleasure: I love "ou" spellings on certain words...dunno why...just do...back to the topic) and begin to peruse some of the latest entries.

It appears that American Eagle, Under Armor, Hollister, and Ambercrombie & Fitch are among the top ones, but there are others as well.  Seeing these and thinking about what many of my students where, I had to stop and wonder:  Why do we wear (let's just stick with clothing here...)the brands that we do?  

I'l get into my choices later, but for now, I guess we'd have to evaluate the purpose of clothes.  Obviously, they clothe us.  Most of us wouldn't want to go around naked or be around naked people at the work place, right?  While some may derive a really weird pleasure from it, for the most part, keep that stuff at home or the occasional hotel room, right?  This would also pertain to those that require certain attire for maintaining religious beliefs.  

Clothes also allow us a certain look.  We've all heard the phrase "Sunday best", "casual Friday", and "business casual".  We've professional obligations to maintain, even if we don't always agree with them.  Personally, I'd love to wear cargos to work every day, but I can't.  Jeans suffice two days a week for me.

But the third one is tricky.  Clothes allow for a bit of prestige.  Wear something nice and you get noticed.  But what makes that t-shirt nice?  Is it the splatter logo mosaic of a bird's silouhette on it that makes it cool?  Point is, that little check mark (makes a woosh-like sound...) is pretty cool and turns that regular run of the mill shirt into a $30 t-shirt.  Like that broken in jeans?  Spend $60 on a pair of "worn in" jeans that could possible tear on you in about a month for that more "broken in super cool" look. 

I know I sound jaded, but in the end, clothes are just clothes.  They shouldn't define you, but so often we see that it does.  Maybe that's okay, but I would hope that people could eventually grow out of that.  I'm trying not to judge, because I'm quite guilty of this.  One of my favorite shirts is that black Nike shirt.  The only thing on it is an embroidered swoosh.  Why do I like it?  It fits me like no other and it's been washed so many times that it's nearly ashy, but velvety soft.

So, in short, I do have five brands that I like, but it goes beyond the brand.  Many of these lack the obligatory highly visible logo.  They don't need them.  But then again...

1. ecco Shoes - My first pair of "good" golf shoes, I love them.  Nothing fancy in the design at all, black and white.  I got a super deal on them...four years ago.  They work just as well as the pair I just got three months ago.  
2. Old Navy - The clothes fit me, the shirts damn near perfect.  The jeans hold up (I still have my second pair, they are perfectly ripped up, circa 1999/2000) .  Prices are nice, but sales are the best.  What more is there to say?
3. adidas - I don't care much for the adidas brand (too much hype), but I do have to say that much of their apparel is really nice.  They've had some really nice golf team shirts and I can't say enough about their shorts.  Whether it be soccer, golf or basketball, adidas seems to put out some really nice stuff.  I've got a pair of adidas heavy workout shorts (I lost the matching top!) that are circa 1998.  They are my favorite.
4. Hanes - Honesly, this is only because I've had so many custom shirts made in the last five years.  The shirts were true-sized, a nice weight, and didn't shrink too much.  
5. dockers - Honestly, I usually don't care about the brand of my khakis.  I have so many and go through them like water, it's not a big deal.  Dockers tend to be expensive (even during sales) but they do hold up better than other brands...just barely.  Even then, it's number five.

That' s it.  My list.  Nothing fancy.  But the clothes fit physically and monetarily.  And my wife likes them on me.  Maybe that's the most important thing.  So, now, you get you leave your comments.  Go ahead; share with us.  Disagree?  Question me for buying foreign brands?  Want to know more about those foreign brands?  Leave a comment.

Final quote: If most of us are ashamed of shabby clothes and shoddy furniture, let us be more ashamed of shabby  ideas and shoddy philosophies...It would be a sad situation if the wrapper were better thant eh meat wrapped inside it. - Albert Einstein

Risk Takers: Cheerleader Try-Outs

I didn't learn to take risks until later in life, but it's been a good experience for me.

I decided to help out with some cheer try-outs.

I helped out last year, and I offered my humble services again this year.  No, I'm not judging.  In fact, I can't really see anything; I'm simply a score tabulator.  I bust out my laptop and Excel and total and graph the scores.

I didn't try out for cheer leading, nor do I have any daughters.  My sister didn't try out for it either. It's pretty interesting to at least hear the girls do their thing.  

I remember being that age and to put yourself up for this...I take back EVERY SINGLE MEAN THING I ever said or thought.  Middle school-ers are really mean.  To take the chance to do something you might like...Wow.

For all those chances I didn't take in middle and high school, I look back and know I missed out.  Worried about what "they" might say or think.  Now, I could care less.  Velvet ropes have parted, valets have jumped to service.  Once you attain that freedom from other's judgement, you will have opened up the entire world.

So to all you cheerleaders, those that tried out, those that are trying out, those that are thinking about trying out...Do your best.  Regardless of what some jerk might/did say to you, I promise you this:  taking this chance will build upon your character.  You will be a better person for taking that chance.

Take a chance!  Vote on the survey, or better yet, leave a comment.  It's your chance...

Final Quote: Two roads diverged in a wood, and I, I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference. - Robert Frost